Editor: Nicholas Goodwin
Indonesia’s rich marine biodiversity is under threat. Climate change is altering where and when fish travel. Pollution is causing harm to vital oceans. As populations grow, sustainable fishing will become more important than ever – yet practices like overexploitation, blast fishing by Indonesian fisheries and consumption of endangered fish species are destabilizing critical ecosystems.
These behaviors harm the environment and threaten the livelihoods of coastal communities. So why do they happen? And what can we do about it?
To address these challenges, we need to understand what’s shaping the human behavior that causes them. That’s why Tulodo has partnered with the Walton Family Foundation (WFF) to explore behavioral approaches for sustainable fishing in Indonesia. It’s a groundbreaking effort that will help local partners take on the challenges facing Indonesia’s fisheries industry through innovative solutions rooted in behavioral science.
This is an exciting new approach. By identifying the psychological factors that drive unsustainable practices, we can develop interventions that encourage positive change. In short: by understanding why people act the way they do, we can encourage them to make different choices.
We know that these methods work. Behavioral strategies from social marketing campaigns to community engagement initiatives have been shown to improve compliance with regulations and foster a culture of sustainability. Using behavioral science principles, we can help stakeholders make informed decisions that benefit their livelihoods and the environment. Together, these decisions will ensure that Indonesia’s marine ecosystems can survive and thrive long into the future.
We’re excited about our role in this effort – but we also know that projects like this are most effective when they engage and empower the people who are closest to the challenge. That’s why Tulodo is providing WFF partners with the knowledge and tools they need to implement behavioral approaches effectively. Through capacity-building workshops and ongoing support, we aim to equip stakeholders with the skills to use behavioral science in their existing programs. By partnering with local communities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, we can amplify the impact of their efforts and drive meaningful change at scale.
As we navigate the complex challenges facing Indonesia’s fisheries industry, behavioral science offers a path towards greater impact. If we understand what drives human behavior and apply targeted interventions, we can promote sustainable fishing practices that benefit people and the planet. We can lift up collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to long-term sustainability. Ultimately, we can build a future where Indonesia’s marine ecosystems thrive – and support livelihoods and biodiversity for generations to come.