Small-scale fishers' knowledge for ocean sustainability

Abstract

This chapter will focus on an ethnographic empirical fieldwork approach within a small-scale fishing community to argue the importance of engagement methodologies in sustainability-related studies. When it comes to the study of human-nature relationships, the small-scale fishing context is very valuable as it allows the researcher to uncover rich traditional local knowledge about nature, specifically the ocean-atmosphere nexus which plays a key role in mitigating climate change. Increasing attention has been given to the urgency of conserving marine ecosystems. This chapter brings together transdisciplinary knowledge about the oceans to rethink the sustainability of the oceans, combining scientific and lay traditional knowledge. Starting from a practical example, it highlights the complexity of the relationship between Setúbal’s (Portugal) small fishing community and its environment. The main argument of this chapter is the importance of a holistic small-scale analysis to truly understand the interaction of all elements of the earth system and its local consequences, so that we can truly reflect on issues such as spatial planning, ocean governance, and sustainability that is intended to be environmental, social, and economic.