Effective marine conservation requires strong partnerships between science, industry, and coastal communities. Here, we explore two case studies that demonstrate how co-designed initiatives can address key marine sustainability challenges while delivering mutual benefits.
The first case study examines a crucial partnership with commercial fishers to mitigate the risk of whale entanglements in coastal set-gear fisheries. Through the East Coast Whale Entanglement Mitigation Program, fishers, managers, and scientists work together to understand the challenges posed by the annual whale migration and trial innovative fishing gear modifications, ensuring that any viable options are both practical for industry and effective for conservation.
The second case study highlights a long-running coastal clean-up initiative with oyster farmers, known as “Tide to Tip”. By mobilising aquaculture communities to remove marine debris in oyster growing estuaries, this program not only mitigates pollution but also fosters a culture of environmental stewardship, highlighting the role of industry in marine conservation.
These successes illustrate the power of participatory, co-designed approaches in marine science. By integrating stakeholder expertise and fostering reciprocal knowledge exchange, these collaborations enhance conservation outcomes while promoting industry resilience. They underscore the importance of community-driven solutions in achieving long-term sustainability in marine resource management.