A new study published in npj Ocean Sustainability presents a participatory systems-thinking approach to understanding fishers’ wellbeing in Scotland’s nephrops fishery.
The article, “Understanding fishers’ wellbeing through participatory processes in fisheries management,” uses fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) to capture and compare the perspectives of fishers, policymakers, researchers, civil society, and fisher representatives. The study highlights both shared priorities—such as investment, economic security, and job satisfaction—and key differences in how wellbeing is conceptualised and connected to policy.
The research underscores the importance of inclusive, stakeholder-driven approaches in fisheries governance and demonstrates how systems-based tools can support more holistic and equitable policy design.
This work was by the CCRI at the University of Gloucestershire and the Lyell Centre at Heriot-Watt University. Open access publication was generously supported by the Lyell Centre.
Read the full article here: https://www.nature.com/articles/s44183-025-00107-8
Author Statements:
Dr Evgenia Micha, CCRI, University of Gloucestershire
“Our aim was to move beyond abstract discussions of wellbeing and develop a tangible, systems-based method that brings all stakeholder voices into the same space. This work shows that even when views diverge, shared understanding is possible.”
Dr Ingrid Kelling, The Lyell Centre, Heriot-Watt University
“Fishers’ wellbeing is essential to sustainable fisheries, yet it’s often overlooked in policy. This study demonstrates that with the right tools, we can co-produce knowledge that is nuanced, inclusive, and actionable.”
