CONFERENCE THEME
The theme of this year’s conference is “Linking science and society towards a vision for sustainable fisheries“.

Join us in Nassau, Bahamas, this November to exchange ideas and perspectives on emerging research and science with direct relevance to management and governance. The theme of this meeting highlights the importance of engagement and dialogue among diverse sectors to ensure a sustainable future of the region’s fisheries and marine resources. The marine environment continues to be threatened by impacts from overfishing, habitat loss and climate change, resulting in decreased biodiversity, increasing social inequality, and increasing food insecurity. These impacts present significant challenges now and into the future. During the meeting, we will discuss key topics for engaging in, and supporting, innovative approaches including ocean literacy, strengthening governance mechanisms, and developing inter- and transdisciplinary research.

As we look forward to a future of sustainable fisheries, it is necessary to examine options, paths, and barriers. Considering this, we are preparing a program comprised of an opening plenary, general sessions, workshops, and technical sessions related to sustainability, fish and aquatic ecosystems, fisheries and society, and innovations in fisheries. We will bring together experts, academics, policymakers, managers, fishers, and relevant organizations interested in marine issues, natural resources, sustainable fisheries, and tourism.

In keeping with the theme of the conference, submissions for oral and/or poster presentations on the following topics are encouraged:

Innovative strategies that promote management and fishery conservation.
Potential short-term and long-term impacts of climate change on fisheries and aquaculture sustainability including integrating knowledge on climate change into fisheries management and marine spatial plans (e.g., modelling and mapping tools, risk and vulnerability analyses, sea-use scenarios; ocean planning and management initiatives)
Innovative strategies that support fishers and communities as they work to meet the sustainable fisheries goals.
Social justice, equity, and fairness in marine fisheries and how these can be integrated into national and international fisheries management and science,
Promoting research and training to build capacity and improve sustainability of local and regional fisheries.
Integrating approaches to restore key species, communities, ecosystems, and ecological processes
Aquaculture approaches to address food insecurity and depleted stocks