Response to sardine mortality must be grounded in science and evidence
The available evidence does not establish widespread penguin starvation caused by the sardine mortality event, nor does it support a complete fishing moratorium as the only scientifically defensible response. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment adopted a precautionary, restricted and reviewable fishing approach while further scientific analysis continues, balancing…
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment maintained a cautious, adaptable fishing policy in response to the recent sardine mortality event, rather than enacting a complete fishing ban. While the evidence does not confirm widespread penguin starvation due to sardine shortages, it also fails to prove that such a ban is the only scientifically justified measure.
Dr. Janet Coetzee, a marine scientist, explains that the precautionary principle should guide the response, balancing ecological concerns with the economic consequences of a total closure. Her department's restricted fishing guidelines are based on the latest scientific findings and will be reassessed as more data becomes available.
Some experts argue for a full fishing halt, but this claim depends on assumptions about sardine losses that may not apply to South Africa's specific situation. The current policy limits the rate at which the remaining sardine catch can be taken, keeps most of the uncaught portion for further review, and will permit stronger measures if needed. This approach still allows for data collection, which will aid future management decisions.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
