Caught Up: Overfishing in the western/central pacific ocean

Sustainability

Overfishing in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean threatens marine ecosystems, food security, and the livelihoods of coastal communities. The region supplies over half of the world’s tuna, but industrial fishing—especially from distant-water fleets—has led to declining fish stocks and ecological imbalances. Weak enforcement, illegal fishing, and unsustainable quotas exacerbate the problem, putting species like bigeye and yellowfin tuna at risk. Indigenous and local fishers, who rely on these waters for sustenance, face increasing competition and economic hardship. Strengthening regional cooperation, enforcing sustainable fishing limits, and protecting marine biodiversity are crucial to ensuring the long-term health of this vital oceanic region.