URI_Research_Magazine_Momentum_Fall_2021_Melissa-McCarthy

JOHN “JP” WALSH Professor, Oceanography

Director, Coastal Resources Center

In larger projects such as this, CRC takes a holistic approach that involves biodiversity, conservation of coastal and marine resources, livelihood development, poverty alleviation, strengthening of women and youth roles, even integrating family planning and health issues. Elin Torell, CRC’s director for International Programs, says, “We look at what the stressors are that make people behave unsustainably toward the marine environment and then determine how we can help them address a whole package of issues with the ultimate goal of a sustainable coastal planning situation.” Torell, a social scientist, works on the human dimensions and gender related research, currently active in the Philippines and Malawi. The thrust of her work is to determine how to make successful livelihood interventions in developing countries and increase food security in coastal communities. “Traditionally, fisheries have been thought of as

CRC also works in Madagascar and Malawi, playing a supportive role and connecting with local universities on research such as bioeconomic monitoring and stock assessments to protect biodiversity resources through targeted interventions. What’s next? CRC is developing a strategic plan for the future, with an eye toward greater collaboration, increased visibility, and increased impact. The vision is to have communities that are capable, effective stewards of their coasts and oceans. Or, as Walsh says, “to have a healthier planet with healthier coastal systems that provide for all, forever. It may sound dreamy, but we are a hopeful organization.” Through their efforts, the best management practices for cleaner water and well-designed coastlines are transferred around the globe. “CRC is not only adept at bringing the best science to coastal management challenges with local to international scope, but it stands apart

men fish, women process,” says Torell. “Our research shows women also catch a lot, fishing from the shore and collecting oysters and crabs. Their work is extremely important for family food security, but it doesn’t make it into the statistics. We are trying to change this by making women’s engagement in fisheries more visible.”

from other organizations because of CRC’s commitment to helping coastal communities succeed long after a given project concludes,” says GSO Dean Paula Bontempi.

FALL | 2021 Page 55