The Impact of Subsidies on the Ecological Sustainability and Future Profits from North Sea Fisheries
2011

Impact of Subsidies on North Sea Fisheries

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Prof. Johanna Jacomina Heymans, Steven Mackinson, Ussif Rashid Sumaila, Andrew Dyck, Alyson Little

Primary Institution: Scottish Association for Marine Science

Hypothesis

How do subsidies affect the profitability and ecological stability of North Sea fisheries?

Conclusion

Removing subsidies may reduce total catch and revenue but increases overall profitability and biomass of important fish species.

Supporting Evidence

  • Subsidies have a negative impact on fish biomass and profitability.
  • Removing subsidies can lead to increased biomass of key fish species like cod and haddock.
  • Simulations indicate that profitability can increase when subsidies are eliminated.

Takeaway

Subsidies make fishing less profitable and harm fish populations, but removing them can help fish thrive and make fishing more profitable.

Methodology

The study used hindcast analysis and simulations to evaluate the effects of subsidies on fishery profitability and ecological stability.

Limitations

The study's findings are based on simulations and may not account for all real-world variables affecting fisheries.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0020239

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