To legalise or not to legalise: evaluating the contribution of traceability technology to the sustainability and governance of the Peruvian jumbo squid and mahi mahi fisheries

Bogantes, Aimée Leslie (2025) To legalise or not to legalise: evaluating the contribution of traceability technology to the sustainability and governance of the Peruvian jumbo squid and mahi mahi fisheries. Doctoral thesis, University of Cumbria.

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Abstract

Given the worldwide implications of overfishing and its ensuing ecological consequences, the central question this study seeks to address is to what extent are electronic traceability systems, endorsed by organisations like WWF, able to enhance the sustainability and governance of fisheries. In Peru, jumbo squid and mahi mahi fisheries play a pivotal role in the nation's socio-economic landscape, employing tens of thousands of people. Despite their immense importance, significant gaps exist in the sustainability and governance of these fisheries, exacerbated by limited data on annual catches and the number of operational vessels. Addressing these challenges would not only ensure the fisheries' prosperity but would also support sustainable marine resource management. Employing a realist evaluation approach within a case study framework, this research delves into the developmental journey of the Peruvian fisheries’ traceability system. It considers various stakeholder perspectives, encompassing artisanal fishers, industry players, governmental officials, and environmental non-governmental organisation (ENGO) representatives, and investigates the role of ENGOs and government institutions in the traceability process. Findings suggest that such systems can significantly strengthen governance arrangements, potentially leading to a marked improvement in sustainability practices. However, technological adaptability challenges emerge as barriers, impacting the uptake of such systems within the fishing community. While electronic traceability systems appear to offer a promising solution for Peru's fisheries, its success is contingent upon addressing various inherent challenges, some being technological, with most others socioeconomic. This study posits that with appropriate adjustments, other global and national fisheries might also derive benefits from similar interventions.

Item Type:	Thesis/Dissertation (Doctoral)
Departments:	Institute of Business, Industry and Leadership > Institute for Leadership and Sustainability (IFLAS)
Additional Information:	Thesis submitted for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), Initiative for Leadership and Sustainability (IFLAS), Institute of Business, Industry and Leadership, University of Cumbria in Partnership with Lancaster University, February 2025.
Depositing User:	Anna Lupton
Date Deposited:	10 Feb 2025 10:39
Last Modified:	10 Feb 2025 10:45
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/8637

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