Assessing effectiveness of satoumi activities in Japanese coastal areas from ecological and socioeconomic perspectives

Abstract

Satoumi has long been practiced in Japan and is recently being promoted in pursuit of sustainable integrated coastal zone management (ICZM) and biodiversity conservation. Satoumi is considered as “a sea where high productivity and conservation of biological diversity are achieved through human intervention in harmony with natural ecosystems.” In this study, four satoumi cases were selected, Shiretoko, Ago Bay, Hinase, and Nanao Bay, in order to assess their effectiveness in coastal management, biodiversity conservation, and socioeconomic impacts. In all four cases, positive changes in local coastal ecosystems were found, including an increase in local biodiversity, improvement in water quality, and restoration of ecosystems. There were also significant socioeconomic outcomes such as involvement of wider stakeholders, mainstreaming of biodiversity, and promotion of local products and tourism. Also, by comparing the four cases, some key characteristics of satoumi that contribute to management effectiveness were identified. These are setting clear targets, leadership by key persons, and the driving force of important stakeholders such as fishers and local businesses, who have a profound and historical stake in coastal management.