10. Using Technology In Combating IUU Fishing: The Potential Of Satellite Remote Sensing

Abstract

A monitoring, control and surveillance (MCS) project financed by the European Development Fund was carried out by the Indian Ocean Commission between 2005 and 2008. Its objectives were, inter alia , to estimate the extent and incidence of the illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing problem and its impact on the Indian Ocean Commission (COI) member states. Among the approaches for achieving this was the implementation of a sampling programme within the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of COI member states, using satellite remote sensing technology. This chapter describes the results, as well as offers views on the benefits, limitations and future development of approach within the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) using satellite remote sensing technology. The use of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery needs to be explored, together with Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) records where available, to determine where the longline fishing vessels are located. Keywords: exclusive economic zones (EEZs); IUU fishing; satellite remote sensing technology; Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR); Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS)