Socioeconomic analysis on the sustainability of fishing activity in the Rio Doce Region

Abstract

This study analyzed the sustainability of fishing in Rio Doce communities, highlighting the challenges faced by fishermen in the face of environmental degradation and economic vulnerability after the collapse of the Mariana dam, Minas Gerais. Using the MESMIS model (Framework for the Assessment of Natural Resource Management Systems Incorporating Sustainability Indicators), fishing conditions in the Lower, Middle and Upper Rio Doce regions were assessed. 11 sustainability indicators were considered, distributed among the Social, Economic and Environmental dimensions, and organized into the following attributes: Productivity; Stability, Resilience and Reliability; Adaptability; Equity; Self-management. The results revealed that fishing in the Baixo Rio Doce obtained a score of 22.17, classified as regular. In the Middle Rio Doce, the score was 23.67, indicating a desirable condition, while in the Upper Rio Doce, the score was 22.51, also considered regular. Although some areas, such as the Médio Rio Doce, present better conditions, fishing communities face challenges such as the lack of links with colonies, the low contribution of fishing to family income and the reduction in catches, suggesting overfishing or environmental degradation.

Key words: sustainability; fishing; Rio Doce; MESMIS; indicators.