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How does climate change affect fishing in Portugal?

Fisheries are a very important activity for Portugal, both in economic and cultural terms. However, climate change is significantly affecting fishing in the country.In this article, we will explore how climate change is affecting fishing in Portugal and the measures that are being taken to deal with these challenges.

Portugal is one of the largest fish producers in the European Union, with a fishing industry that employs around 47,000 people and generates around 1.3 billion euros per year. Fishing is an essential part of Portuguese culture and economy, and many coastal communities depend on it to survive. However, climate change is affecting this industry in various ways.

One way climate change is affecting fishing in Portugal is through changes in water temperature. Water temperature is a crucial factor for the survival and reproduction of various fish species, and changes in water temperature can lead to changes in feeding and spawning behavior of fish, which can affect fishing. For example, some fish species are moving north as warmer Mediterranean waters expand, which can lead to a decrease in catch in some fishing areas.

Another way climate change is affecting fishing in Portugal is through changes in ocean currents. Changes in ocean currents can lead to changes in the distribution of fish and other marine animals, which can affect fishing. For example, changes in currents can cause fish species that are normally caught in shallow waters to move to deeper waters, making fishing more difficult.

Ocean acidification is another way climate change is affecting fishing in Portugal. Ocean acidification can affect marine life, including fish, mollusks, and crustaceans. This can lead to a reduction in the amount of fish available for fishing, which can have a significant impact on the fishing industry. Sea level rise is also a concern for fishing in Portugal. Sea level rise can lead to coastal erosion and destruction of marine habitats, which can affect fishing. For example, coastal fishing may become more difficult as the coast recedes and fishing ports are destroyed.

To address these challenges, the Portuguese government is taking measures to adapt the fishing industry to climate change. For example, the government is investing in fishing monitoring and management technology to track changes in species distribution and ensure that fishing quotas are managed.

Interview made by a group of young Portuguese people to the Portuguese fishing company Aquavita to understand more about how climate change is affecting fishing in Portugal.

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