Net Losses: Climate Change, Commercial Fishing, and Crime in SW England

• In Event: Green Criminology I: Animal Abuse, Fishing and Hunting

Abstract

This research paper focuses on the fishing industry in the southwest of England, examining the harms associated with commercial fishing, and exploring how an already ineffectively regulated, precarious industry is being impacted by global warming. Drawing on qualitative data from within the fishing industry, marine biology, and governance, we explore the current state of the fishing industry, the implications of warming waters, and the emergence of a range of harms of criminological relevance. Global warming has led to the displacement of native fish, stocks, and the introduction of foreign species. Fragmentation and under resourcing at the level of governance exacerbates existing harms and stresses within the industry, while providing opportunity for new criminogenic opportunities due to inadequate regulation and enforcement.

Authors

• Oliver Smith, University of Plymouth

• Alex Danning, University of Plymouth