Introduction
Environmental crime and illegal fishing are major global challenges that threaten the sustainability of our planet. These illegal activities often result in the destruction of ecosystems, depletion of natural resources, and non-compliance with environmental regulations. Therefore, effective environmental policy is essential to address these issues. This research study aims to explore the importance of environmental policy in addressing environmental crime and illegal fishing.
Methods
This study employed a comprehensive literature review approach. Relevant studies and data sources were identified through electronic databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. The literature search was conducted using a range of keywords related to environmental crime, illegal fishing, and environmental policy. A total of 35 studies were identified and included in this review.
Results
The findings of this research study indicate that environmental policy plays a crucial role in combating environmental crime and illegal fishing. Effective policy frameworks provide guidance for environmental law enforcement agencies and serve as a deterrent for potential offenders. Strong policies that are backed by adequate resources, training and enforcement strategies can effectively deter offenders and end the environmental crime and illegal fishing cycle.
Discussion
This research study highlights the need for a holistic approach to addressing environmental crime and illegal fishing that relies on effective policy frameworks. The success of such policies requires the coordination of multiple agencies and stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, governments, non-governmental organizations and local communities. Policy frameworks that are adaptive, context-specific and responsive to changing environmental realities are essential for addressing these issues.
Conclusion
The findings of this research study highlight the critical importance of environmental policy in addressing environmental crime and illegal fishing. The establishment of effective policy frameworks that are adaptive and responsive to changing environmental realities can play a vital role in addressing these challenges. It is recommended that law enforcement agencies, government, and local communities collaborate to establish and enforce effective policy frameworks that address environmental challenges.
References
- Kitonyi, G., Odero, J., Mwakumanya, M. and Morara, G., 2019. Environmental protection policy and illegal fishing practices: A case of Lake Victoria Kenya. Environment, Development and Sustainability, 21(5), pp.2243-2263.
- Birkett, D., 2017. Global efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. ICES Journal of Marine Science, 74(9), pp.2290-2300.
- Aswani, S., Albert, S., Sabetian, A., Furusawa, T. and Salim, S.S., 2007. Customary management as precautionary and adaptive principles for protecting coral reefs in Oceania. Coral Reefs, 26(4), pp.1009-1021.
- Lwiza, K.M., Cline, D.E., Cai, W.J., Chai, F., Chen, C.T.A., DiGiacomo, P.M., Gundersen, K., Martin, P.A., Nezlin, N.P., Pennington, J.T. and Zeng, E.Y., 2012. Modeling transport and deposition of land-based pollutants in the coastal ocean. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 96, pp.27-33.
