A threatened heritage: Sustainable alternatives for Mediterranean small-scale fisheries

This study underscores the crucial role of small-scale fisheries (SSF) in promoting sustainable fishing practices within the Mediterranean context, emphasizing the necessity to align fisheries commerce with local seafood consumption. SSF in the Mediterranean, particularly in the Balearic Islands, are vital for local communities, contributing significantly to fish catches, while being deeply intertwined with cultural heritage and traditional values. However, these fisheries face several threats, including resource depletion, management strategies favouring fleet reduction, and increase of seafood imports. Our research investigates the relationships between the local fishing sector and resident population, exploring perspectives on sustainability. We examine SSF activities and perceptions through face-to-face questionnaires in nine fishing ports and assess seafood consumption habits through phone questionnaires. The study reveals an aging fishing sector rooted in family traditions that face administrative hurdles in implementing strategies such as fish tourism and direct sales, but seeks to enhance local product consumption. Despite the traditional relevance of fish in the Mediterranean diet, our findings also show low consumption of fresh and local seafood due to consumer’s limited knowledge on local species and related cooking methods and perceived high costs. However, the cultural importance of these products remains undiminished. To reinforce the cultural heritage of SSF and improve the future perspectives of the sector, we advocated for a multi-pronged approach, including raising consumers’ awareness about local species, controlling local prices, and promoting certified products through a reduction in the administrative burden and by promoting the active involvement of SSF.