Sustainable Fishing and MPA Multi-Use in Torre Guaceto

Torre Guaceto is located in the South Western Adriatic Sea near the Puglia Region

The place inherits its name from the Arabic "Al Gawsit" which means the "land of fresh water".

Thanks to WWF efforts, the MPA has been in force since the early 2000s, covering ~2227 ha with different zones for conservation recreation and partial fishing.

Our case study identified a strong commitment on the part of MPA management to make fishers a valuable player in Torre Guaceto's socio-ecological system. "We need to involve people whose livelihood comes from these biodiversity and ecosystem services" said an MPA official in a recent interview.

Incentives to comply with sustainable practices come in the form of direct payments based on proceeds from conservation schemes. Fishermen can spend this money on new, eco-friendly gear. They also get a 'slow food' badge which allows them to get a higher price for their product, not to mention the enhanced reputation.

Although co-management has largely been successful, MPA governance is not without challenges.

The strict, top-down control of national institutions leaves MPA with many responsibilities but insufficient powers to implement them. For example, MPA staff has no legal authority issue fines against illegal activities.