FISHER COMMUNITY PLATFORM “UMITOBA”

Overview

Japan’s seas, rich in biodiversity and ecosystems, have long supported abundant fisheries and a vibrant seafood culture. However, they are increasingly impacted by climate change. Rising sea temperatures and the deterioration of coastal ecosystems threaten seaweed and seagrass beds, coral reefs, tidal flats, and, in turn, the fisheries that depend on them.

Roughly 100,000 fishers across Japan face these changes every day, yet the pace and scale of transformation have made traditional methods insufficient. Each region faces unique challenges, with no one-size-fits-all solution. For fishers, gathering the latest information and formulating effective plans is time-consuming and resource-intensive. Many, though aware of the urgency, struggle to identify practical responses. Addressing this reality requires fishers not only to deepen their own knowledge, but also to work more closely with experts and businesses than ever before.

To support fisheries in overcoming these challenges, UMITO Partners launched UMITOBA, a community platform where fishers and fisheries cooperative staff committed to protecting the richness of the ocean can join as individuals. The platform offers access to essential information, practical knowledge, and concrete solutions, while enabling members to learn from both the successes and setbacks of other regions. By drawing on the expertise and resources of specialists and companies, participants can tailor strategies to their own circumstances, while connecting with peers who share the same vision.

Through UMITOBA, UMITO Partners aims to strengthen fisher-led initiatives and expand efforts to safeguard healthy oceans for the future.

Online Workshops

Held every other month, each session features guest speakers relevant to the theme—sharing scientific insights, successful case studies, and engaging in open discussions designed to spark practical action among fishers.

Past sessions include:

• Exploring Blue Carbon from a Fisher’s Perspective – How healthy marine ecosystems support biodiversity, climate benefits, and the livelihoods of fishers.
• From Northern Sanriku to the World – Local initiatives with global potential for enriching marine ecosystems.
• Edible Solutions to Desertification – Using harvest and consumption of certain species to help restore seaweed and seagrass habitats.

In-Person Events

Organized once or twice a year to deepen connections and collaboration.

Collaboration Support

Matching community members (fishers) with experts or companies that can provide solutions to their specific challenges, and facilitating collaboration.

Network Building

Creating opportunities for information and idea exchange among fishers beyond regional boundaries.

Information Sharing

Providing clear, organized access to practical resources—such as relevant technologies, research findings, and available support programs—that can help move on-the-ground activities forward.