HOKKAIDO YAGISHIRI UNI-MOBA SUSTAINABLE FISHERY PROJECT

Overview

On Yagishiri Island, located in northwestern Hokkaido and home to a population of around 160 people, fishing has long served as the core industry of the community. Approximately 20 fishers on the island are engaged in sea urchin harvesting, which is central to the local economy. In recent years, however, the degradation of seagrass and kelp beds has led to a decline in both the quality and economic value of the sea urchins. In response to this challenge, the Yagishiri Branch of the Kita Rumoi Fisheries Cooperative has partnered to launch the Yagishiri UNI-MOBA Sustainable Fishery Project, aiming to improve sea urchin quality and ensure the long-term sustainability of the fishery.

Through this project, efforts are underway to conserve and restore seaweed habitats, improving feeding grounds for sea urchins and contributing to both better product quality and a healthier marine ecosystem. In addition, by introducing blue finance mechanisms such as blue carbon credits, the project seeks to translate environmental value into economic returns. UMITO Partners is supporting the initiative by leveraging its expertise and network in marine and fisheries sustainability to design and guide the project, provide scientific and financial advice, facilitate stakeholder alignment, and lead public communications. Together with the local community, the project is working to build a replicable model for sustainable small-scale fisheries.