“Environmental and Anthropogenic Factors Behind the Decline of Anchovies”

The project has just begun and will conclude in March, coinciding with my graduation. This project will serve as the focus of my graduation thesis. As a part-time fisherman, I am witnessing the decline in both the size and population of anchovies, which are a cornerstone of the pelagic food chain. My main goal is to investigate the effectiveness of current public policies. Are the existing regulations on anchovy fishing—such as quotas, minimum size limits, and breeding period restrictions—truly effective, or are they inadvertently disrupting the food chain? Are tuna fishing regulations stricter than those for anchovies?

A second objective is to examine the reasons behind the limited bargaining power of fishermen in fact most of the times they have no power to decide the price of their catch.

My third goal is to develop a communication campaign aimed at raising consumer awareness about the impact of their food consumption choices. How can we improve the way we communicate sustainability and respect for nature?