Lessons from Ecosystem Approach to Aquaculture (EAA) Best Practices for Sustainable Fisheries Development in Indonesia

Abstract

This study examines the application of the concept developed in the last decade, namely the Ecosystem Approach to Aquaculture (EAA). This approach balances social goals with human state and their interactions with ecosystem. The EAA is a strategy for integrating activities within the wider ecosystem in such a way that it promotes sustainable development, equity, and resilience of interlinked social and ecological systems. Case studies in three locations, namely Pinrang, Aceh Besar and South Lampung, were conducted to draw lessons in order to formulate a general framework for wider application in this country. The potential application of the concept was examined based on the following aspects: (i) ecosystem sustainability, (ii) justice welfare, and (iii) good governance. Data were collected through surveys guided with previously designed questionnaires, invlolving 179 respondents selected purposively from exixting shrimp cultivator. Data were analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) using the Stata software. Results showed that there was a difference between weights determined in the technical guidelines and those resulting from PCA, which was indicated by various existing conditions in research location. This is a significant finding that is relevant in in developing EAA in Indonesia.