Introduction:

The NEREUS project introduced an innovative tool that uses satellite data to monitor vast Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) threatened by Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. The tool includes offline components, such as dark heat maps, which identify areas at risk of IUU fishing, and operational components, like vessel trajectory prediction, that support monitoring and prosecution services when vessels display unusual behaviors. The NEREUS team has shown that investing in this tool has at least a 30-factor multiplier effect on return: every $1 invested could return $31 to the affected community if the information provided is acted upon.

The Challenge:

The Western Indian Ocean is at risk of overfishing, particularly for tuna species. Overexploitation often occurs due to poor regulations and limited resources in developing countries, hindering their ability to prevent and tackle IUU fishing. Mauritius, with its growing IUU Fishing Risk Index, is particularly vulnerable. The index comprises 40 indicators, including the size of the EEZ, foreign vessel access, unknown vessel ownership, and lack of data sharing. Despite measures taken, IUU fishing remains a significant threat, requiring innovative approaches to estimate the problem's extent, support local authorities, and identify best management practices.   

The Solution:

To address the IUU fishing threat, NEREUS developed a satellite-based monitoring tool that analyzes discrepancies between Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Automatic Identification System (AIS) data. This tool offers offline and operational components that improve awareness of IUU fishing risk areas, optimize patrolling services, enable prosecution, and provide stakeholders with user-friendly information.

Why this matters:

The NEREUS project is vital because it tackles the urgent issue of illegal fishing and promotes sustainable fisheries management. It directly supports several of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to protecting our oceans and ensuring responsible use of marine resources. By combating illegal fishing practices, NEREUS helps to safeguard marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of those who depend on them. Its innovative approach not only aids in monitoring fishing activities but also empowers local communities and strengthens international cooperation towards a more sustainable future for our oceans.

Results and impact:

NEREUS has yielded promising results, showcasing significant potential for advancing Mauritius' maritime and data management capabilities. It has established a data storage system valued at $2.3 million, made possible through collaboration with major space agencies. One of its notable milestones is the development of a capacity-building program that has trained 150 delegates globally, including 50 from Mauritius. The project has engaged a wide audience, with over 1,800 participants reached through 10 international events. NEREUS has also provided a comprehensive evaluation of IUU fishing in Mauritius and its estimated economic impact. Moreover, the project has introduced an innovative maritime surveillance tool designed to enhance monitoring of fishing activities. While these achievements highlight the project's potential, further validation and integration by the Government of Mauritius remain essential for realizing its full impact. Preliminary findings indicate a potential return of $31 to the Mauritian community for every dollar invested, underscoring the value of continued support and exploration of these advancements.

Replicate and scale-up:

The NEREUS tool has strong potential for replication in other regions facing IUU fishing threats. Its open-source software and cost-effectiveness make it adaptable to various contexts. The project has identified several scaling-up options, including geographical expansion to other countries, thematic expansion into the financial and insurance sectors, and integration with more surveillance platforms.   

Lessons learned:

NEREUS emphasized stakeholder engagement and collaboration with the local community. Effective communication and addressing stakeholder concerns were crucial for project success. Building trust with authorities by demonstrating the tool's capabilities and economic benefits was essential for its acceptance and implementation.