Sustainable small-scale fisheries and aquaculture continue to grow in popularity as environmentally conscious consumers seek to minimize their impact and financially support and grow local economies. There is substantial opportunity for small-scale fisheries and aquaculture producers to provide sustainably caught and cultured products to environmentally supportive tourism businesses such as eco-lodges, live-aboard vessel tours, and restaurants, while at the same time continuing to provide these products to local residents. There is also opportunity to develop sustainable recreational fisheries, particularly those based on catch and release principles, that would promote sustainability and employment opportunities. We propose to organize a panel discussion featuring a balanced mix of local entrepreneurs and fisheries and social scientists to discuss potential barriers and benefits of meeting the demand for sustainable, locally produced fish and shellfish (wild capture or aquaculture) and socially responsible recreational fishing opportunities.

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