Are we ready to implement resist–accept–direct framework thinking? A case study of fish stocks and small‐scale fisheries in the Puck Bay (Southern Baltic)

Abstract

AbstractThe Puck Bay socioecological system is covered by many management plans, most of which are embedded in a paradigm of resistance to ecosystem change. However, it is highly probable that this system has already passed the tipping point, in terms of both the availability of fish stocks and small‐scale fishery function in coastal communities. The current scheme excludes the listing of alternative management options, as it rejects those that have not been agreed upon. Societal feasibility has been a barrier to many of these rejected solutions. Another problem is the low level of coordination between the plans and the varying ability to implement them, which depends on the funding source. Recognising that the ecosystem is in transition and may not be controllable, managers can apply the resist–accept–direct (RAD) framework to make more informed decisions and better prepare for the future.