Top

The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment

Published in:

04-05-2024 | DATA AVAILABILITY, DATA QUALITY

Statistics-based LCA of artisanal fishing in the Union of the Comoros: efficiency challenges

Authors: Angel Avadí, Marie-Hélène Dabat, Paul Sfez, Mahamoudou Said

Published in: The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment | Issue 9/2024

Activate our intelligent search to find suitable subject content or patents.

search-config

AI-assisted search

Off

Abstract

Purpose

The Comorian fisheries land around 20 000 t fish annually, for the domestic market. The fleet is divided into a handful of segments, all of them artisanal in nature and practices, using a variety of gear and fishing strategies. Some fishers use fish aggregating devices installed in the territorial waters. This study aims at understanding the comparative environmental impacts of the Comorian fisheries segments, as well as the efficiency of fisheries operations as compared with similar fisheries and alternative sources of animal proteins for the domestic population.

Material and methods

This study applied life cycle assessment to estimate, comparatively, the environmental impacts of the different types of fishing unit, segregated by island, boat size and gear, as well as against alternative sources of protein for the Comorian population and neighbouring artisanal fisheries.

Results and discussion

Comorian fisheries, whose landings are dominated by tunas, seem less efficient than other regional small-scale fisheries and feature higher environmental impacts than alternative animal protein sources available in the country. The widely adopted practice of trolling, highly energy intensive, dominates Comorian fisheries. Passive gear-based fishing strategies also feature higher than expected energy-related impacts. The environmental benefits of using fish aggregating devices are not clear. The impacts on biodiversity are a cause for concern, especially in the reef areas off Mohéli.

Conclusions

Given the cost of public investment on FADs, the fragility of the devices (a FAD can be lost or become ineffective fairly quickly if it is not maintained), and the supposedly significant impact of the FAD network on domestic tuna fishing yields, data on FADs is essential for decision-makers. Other elements for fisheries decision-makers, which are currently lacking, include the monitoring of octopus and reef fish stocks, the effect of co-management agreements on stocks and ecosystems, and a sustainable data collection strategy. The latter would be helpful to better understand the relative importance of fishing strategies, particularly FADs, in relation to fuel intensity. Improving the Comorian fishery’s efficiency would be a key driver to improve its sustainability.

previous article Systematising the LCA approaches’ soup: a framework based on text mining

next article Life cycle assessment as a driver for process optimisation of cellobiose lipids fermentation and purification

Dont have a licence yet? Then find out more about our products and how to get one now:

Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik"

Online-Abonnement

Mit Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik" erhalten Sie Zugriff auf:

über 102.000 Bücher
über 537 Zeitschriften

aus folgenden Fachgebieten:

Automobil + Motoren
Bauwesen + Immobilien
Business IT + Informatik
Elektrotechnik + Elektronik
Energie + Nachhaltigkeit
Finance + Banking
Management + Führung
Marketing + Vertrieb
Maschinenbau + Werkstoffe
Versicherung + Risiko

Jetzt Wissensvorsprung sichern!

inform now

Springer Professional "Technik"

Online-Abonnement

Mit Springer Professional "Technik" erhalten Sie Zugriff auf:

über 67.000 Bücher
über 390 Zeitschriften

aus folgenden Fachgebieten:

Automobil + Motoren
Bauwesen + Immobilien
Business IT + Informatik
Elektrotechnik + Elektronik
Energie + Nachhaltigkeit
Maschinenbau + Werkstoffe

Jetzt Wissensvorsprung sichern!

inform now

Available only for authorised users

Co-management is widely perceived as an efficient approach towards sustainability of small-scale fisheries, a perception that has been occasionally proven wrong (Kosamu 2015).

Acosta-Alba I, Nicolay G, Mbaye A et al (2022) Mapping fisheries value chains to facilitate their sustainability assessment: case studies in The Gambia and Mali. Mar Policy 135:104854. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2021.104854CrossRef

AFFORD (2020) Mapping de l’engagement de la diaspora, Comores. African Foundation for Development. https://diasporafordevelopment.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/CF_Comoros_FR-v.3.pdf

ANSES (2020) Table de composition nutritionnelle des aliments Ciqual [WWW Document]. Agence Natl. sécurité Sanit. l’alimentation, l’environnement du Trav. https://www.data.gouv.fr/en/datasets/table-de-composition-nutritionnelle-des-aliments-ciqual/. Accessed 10 Oct 2024

Asselin-Balençon A, Broekema R, Teulon H et al (2020) AGRIBALYSE v3.0: the French agricultural and food LCI database Methodology for the food products. ADEME - Agence de l’Environnement et de la Maîtrise de l’Energie. https://simapro.com/products/agribalyse-agricultural-database/

Avadí A, Acosta-Alba I (2021) Eco-efficiency of the fisheries value chains in The Gambia and Mali. Foods 10:1620. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods10071620CrossRef

Avadí A, Fréon P (2013) Life cycle assessment of fisheries: a review for fisheries scientists and managers. Fish Res 143:21–38. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fishres.2013.01.006CrossRef

Avadí A, Vázquez-Rowe I (2019a) First series of seafood datasets in ecoinvent: setting the pace for future development. Int J Life Cycle Assess. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11367-019-01659-xCrossRef

Avadí A, Vázquez-Rowe I (2019b) Life Cycle Inventories of Wild Capture and Aquaculture. ecoinvent report. ecoinvent association, Zürich, Switzerland. https://perulca.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/LCI-of-wild-IVR_ecoinvent_sri_fish.pdf

Biard Y, Basset-Mens C, Bessou C et al (2011) LCA-CIRAD platform: life cycle assessment of tropical agricultural products. https://doi.org/10.18167/INFRASTRUCTURE/00008

Bohrer BM (2017) Review: nutrient density and nutritional value of meat products and non-meat foods high in protein. Trends Food Sci Technol 65:103–112. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2017.04.016CrossRef

Breuil C (2018) Etude sur le secteur privé et les filières de la pèche aux Comores: situation actuelle, enjeux et perspectives - Rapport final. Premier Projet de Gouvernance des Pêches et de Croissance Partagée du Sud-Ouest de l’Océan Indien – Comores (projet SWIOFish1). Direction Generale Des Ressources Halieutiques, Moroni

Capacity4dev (2017) Value chain analysis for development (VCA4D) [WWW Document]. https://capacity4dev.europa.eu/projects/value-chain-analysis-for-development-vca4d. Accessed 15 Apr 2024

Cavraro F, Monti MA, Caccin A et al (2023) Is the small-scale fishery more sustainable in terms of GHG emissions? A case study analysis from the Central Mediterranean Sea Mar Policy: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpol.2023.105474CrossRef

Dabat M-H, Avadí A, Sfez P, Saïd M (2023) Analyse de la chaîne de valeur de la pêche en Union des Comores. Rapport pour l’Union Européenne, DG-INTPA. Value Chain Analysis for Development Project (VCA4D CTR 2017/392-417), 141 pp + annexes

Dahari (2021) Rapport d’Activités: Réouverture des zones de fermeture temporaire pour le repos biologique de poulpe Octopus cyanea. Dahari, Mutsamudu. https://daharicomores.org/en/publications/

De Bruyn J, Ferguson E, Allman-Farinelli M et al (2016) Food composition tables in resource-poor settings: exploring current limitations and opportunities, with a focus on animal-source foods in sub-Saharan Africa. Br J Nutr 116:1709–1719. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114516003706CrossRef

DGRH (2021) Bulletin Statistique de Pèche N°4. Synthèse des données de la pêche en Union des Comores. Édition 2021. Direction Générale des Ressources Halieutiques, Service Statistique, Moroni

Fabre P, Dabat M-H, Orlandoni O (2021) Methodological brief for agri-based value chain analysis. Frame and Tools – Key features. Version 2. Value Chain Analysis for Development (VCA4D), Brussels. https://knowledge4policy.ec.europa.eu/sites/default/files/VCA4D%20Methodological%20Brief%20-%20Frame%20and%20Tools.pdf

FAO (2022) FAOSTAT statistical database [WWW Document]. https://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data. Accessed 20 Aug 2023

Goedkoop M, Heijungs R, De Schryver A, Struijs J, van Zelm R (2013) ReCiPe 2008. A LCIA method which comprises harmonised category indicators at the midpoint and the endpoint level. Characterisation. Ministerie van VROM, Den Haag. http://www.lcia-recipe.net

Le Gouvello R, Lamboll R, Martini A, Mgawe Y (2022) Value chain analysis of coastal fisheries in Tanzania. Report for the European Union, DG-INTPA. Value Chain Analysis for Development Project (VCA4D CTR 2017/392-416), 211 p + annexes

Huijbregts MAJ, Steinmann ZJN, Elshout PMF, et al (2016) ReCiPe 2016 A harmonized life cycle impact assessment method at midpoint and endpoint level. Report I: Characterization. Department of Environmental Science, Radboud University Nijmegen. https://www.rivm.nl/bibliotheek/rapporten/2016-0104.pdf

IOTC (2023) Schedule of stock assessments for IOTC species and species of interest from 2023–2027, and for other working party priorities. Indian Ocean Tuna Commission. https://iotc.org/sites/default/files/content/Stock_status/Schedule_of_Stock_Assessments_for_IOTC_Species_and_Species_of_Interest_from_2023.pdf

IOTC (2024) Status summary for species of tuna and tuna-like species under the IOTC mandate, as well as other species impacted by IOTC fisheries [WWW Document]. Indian Ocean Tuna Comm. https://iotc.org/node/3379. Accessed 10 Oct 2023

Issacs M, Onyango P, Akintola SL (2020) Small-Scale Fisheries in Africa: A Regional Portrait. TBTI Global Book Series. Too Big To Ignore (TBTI). toobigtoignore.net

Karim MS, Techera E, Al AA (2020) Ecosystem-based fisheries management and the precautionary approach in the Indian Ocean regional fisheries management organisations. Mar Pollut Bull 159:111438. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111438CrossRef

Karkour S, Rachid S, Maaoui M et al (2021) Status of life cycle assessment (LCA) in Africa. Environ - MDPI 8:1–46. https://doi.org/10.3390/environments8020010CrossRef

Kasprzyk Z (2022) Opportunités pour une meilleure valorisation des captures de la petite pêche en embarcation - Rapport final. Dahari, Blue Ventures. https://daharicomores.org/en/publications/

Kosamu IBM (2015) Conditions for sustainability of small-scale fisheries in developing countries. Fish Res 161:365–373. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fishres.2014.09.002CrossRef

Lidström S, Johnson AF (2020) Ecosystem-based fisheries management: a perspective on the critique and development of the concept. Fish Fish 21:216–222. https://doi.org/10.1111/faf.12418CrossRef

Link JS (2002) What does ecosystem-based fisheries management mean? Fisheries 27:18–21

Lugendo B (2016) Mangroves, salt marshes and seagrass beds. Regional state of the coast report - Western Indian Ocean. pp 52–68. https://doi.org/10.18356/dd8dca69-en

Martinelli G, Vogel E, Decian M et al (2020) Assessing the eco-efficiency of different poultry production systems: an approach using life cycle assessment and economic value added. Sustain Prod Consum 24:181–193. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spc.2020.07.007CrossRef

Ni P, Wang X, Li H (2020) A review on regulations, current status, effects and reduction strategies of emissions for marine diesel engines. Fuel 279:118477. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2020.118477CrossRef

Parker RWR, Vázquez-Rowe I, Tyedmers PH (2015) Fuel performance and carbon footprint of the global purse seine tuna fleet. J Clean Prod 103:517–524. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2014.05.017CrossRef

Parker RWR, Blanchard JL, Gardner C et al (2018) Fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions of world fisheries. Nat Clim Chang 8:333–337. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41558-018-0117-xCrossRef

Prudêncio da Silva V, van der Werf HMG, Soares SR, Corson MS (2014) Environmental impacts of French and Brazilian broiler chicken production scenarios: an LCA approach. J Environ Manage 133:222–231. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2013.12.011CrossRef

Puri M, Kojakovic A, Rincon L et al (2023) The small-scale fisheries and energy nexus – opportunities for renewable energy interventions. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome

Ruiz-Salmón I, Laso J, Margallo M et al (2021) Life cycle assessment of fish and seafood processed products – a review of methodologies and new challenges. Sci Total Environ 761:144094. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144094CrossRef

Saïd M (2018) Pour rendre effectif le développement durable dans le secteur de la pêche. L’urgence de la transition écologique. Communs environnementaux, enjeux Perspect. Repères, la Revue de l’expertise, Paris, pp 64–71

Sheeshka J, Murkin E (2002) Nutritional aspects of fish compared with other protein sources. Comments Toxicol 8:375–397. https://doi.org/10.1080/08865140215065CrossRef

Soudjay KT (2021) A review of the National Fisheries Management Plans in the Comoros. E€Ofish Integrated Programme Management Unit, Mauritius. http://www.ecofish-programme.org

TBTI (2013) Too big to ignore: global partnership for small-scale fisheries research [WWW Document]. http://toobigtoignore.net/. Accessed 10 Mar 2024

Vázquez-Rowe I, Hospido A, Moreira MT, Feijoo G (2012) Best practices in life cycle assessment implementation in fisheries. Improving and broadening environmental assessment for seafood production systems. Trends Food Sci Technol 28:116–131. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tifs.2012.07.003CrossRef

Verones F, Bolowich AF, Ebata K (2017) A case study of life cycle impacts of small-scale fishing techniques in Thailand. Cogent Environ Sci: https://doi.org/10.1080/23311843.2017.1387959CrossRef

WB (2019) Étude Diagnostique Systématique de Pays. Pour une Union des Comores plus unie et plus prospère. World Bank Group, Washington. https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/566661572881777636/pdf/Comoros-Towards-a-More-United-and-Prosperous-Union-of-Comoros-Systematic-Country-Diagnostic.pdf

Wernet G, Bauer C, Steubing B et al (2016) The ecoinvent database version 3 (part I): overview and methodology. Int J Life Cycle Assess 21:1218–1230. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11367-016-1087-8CrossRef

Zampori L, Pant R (2019) Suggestions for updating the Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) method. JRC Technical Repports. EUR 29682 EN. Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg. https://doi.org/10.2760/424613CrossRef

Zeller D, Vianna GMS, Ansell M et al (2021) Fishing effort and associated catch per unit effort for small-scale fisheries in the Mozambique Channel region: 1950–2016. Front Mar Sci 8:1–14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2021.707999CrossRef

Ziegler F, Emanuelsson A, Eichelsheim JL et al (2011) Extended life cycle assessment of southern pink shrimp products originating in Senegalese artisanal and industrial fisheries for export to Europe. J Ind Ecol 15:527–538. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1530-9290.2011.00344.xCrossRef

Title: Statistics-based LCA of artisanal fishing in the Union of the Comoros: efficiency challenges
Authors: Angel Avadí
Marie-Hélène Dabat
Paul Sfez
Mahamoudou Said
Publication date: 04-05-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment / Issue 9/2024
Print ISSN: 0948-3349
Electronic ISSN: 1614-7502
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11367-024-02321-x

A parametric approach for developing embodied environmental benchmark values for buildings

Open Access
BUILDING COMPONENTS AND BUILDINGS

Effect factors for marine invasion impacts on biodiversity

Open Access
OCEAN RESOURCES & MARINE CONSERVATION

Enabling comprehensive assessment of marine eutrophication impacts and their evaluation against regional safe operating space

Open Access
LIFE CYCLE SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT

Correction: Requirements for comparative life cycle assessment studies for single-use and reusable packaging and products: recommendation for decision and policy-makers

Correction

Unveil the carbon footprint of textiles dyed with different reactive dyestuff recipes from an industrial manufacturing perspective

CARBON FOOTPRINTING

Evaluation of hydrometallurgical black mass recycling with simulation-based life cycle assessment

Open Access
CARBON FOOTPRINTING