Climate change is the effect of long-term changing climatic conditions which is caused, among other human activities, by carbon dioxide and carbon monoxides released from incomplete burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and methane emission from animal dungs, rice fields, landfill sites, agricultural chemicals and pesticides [1]. Climate change is intimately linked with agriculture. Its impacts on livelihoods, fishermen and economies dependent on agriculture have been recorded in many places [2, 3] By implication, the fisherfolks are the most susceptible to climate change because of their dependence on aquatic organisms as mainstay of livelihood. Though a global issue, climate change impacts are felt differently across the world [4]. For instance, coastal regions of the world are experiencing flooding because of rise in sea level, coastal erosion, intrusion of sea-water into fresh water sources and it is destabilising ecosystems such as the mangrove and affecting livelihoods [5]. The effects of climate change have caused several environmental and health concerns in different region of the earth. Africa is greatly affected with the challenges of climate change being the most susceptible region and population to this threat. The continent facing problems such as drought, flooding, food security, coastal surge, desert encroachment and other health risks are not far from effects of climate change and global warming [6].

The role of fisheries sector is of great importance, in ensuring adequate protein intake and as a source of economic and social growth for the urban coastal communities [7]. The importance of the fisheries sector to individuals and the economy of many developed and developing countries cannot be overemphasized. It is notable that fish provides more than 60.0% of the world’s supply of protein, especially in developing countries. Its importance could be felt directly and indirectly among rural and urban residents in Nigeria. In Nigeria, fisheries, particularly an important subsector, contributes about 3.00–5.00% to the agriculture share of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Fish are an important protein source in the diet of Nigerians. Protein from fish is highly digestible and of high nutritional value and consists of complete arrays of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Apart from its high quality, fish is a cheaper source of protein compared to other animal protein sources such as beef, pork, chicken, and goat meats. Therefore, the fisheries sub-sector of the Nigerian agriculture is greatly an essential tool for rural development through its provision of income, high-quality protein, and socioeconomic development of fishing communities in Nigeria [7].

Additionally, fisheries role also involve all the activities involved in producing fish and other aquatic resources for the basic purpose of providing human food, although other aims are possible (such as sport or recreational fishing) or obtaining ornamental fish or fish products such as fish oil[8]. Commercial fisheries include wild fisheries and fish farms, both in freshwater (about 10% of all catch) and the oceans (about 90%). Over 10% of the world population are economically dependent on fisheries as a source of employment, of which most are women [9]. A great deal is at stake on the effects of natural and manmade disasters on fisheries especially in Africa. There is growing global awareness and urgency about the need to accelerate action to adapt to climate change. Many cities and local communities, especially in Africa, are already experiencing the impacts of climate change, risks and susceptibilities are increasing on daily basis [9].

Coastal communities in West Africa are characterized of high populations with extensive concentration of residential, industrial, commercial and other human activities. Their proximity to the ocean has exposed the coastal dweller to effects of climate change which include sea-level rise and floods arising from increasing frequency of storm surges, increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, saltwater intrusion and heavy rainfall of long duration or high intensity[9]. Brander [10] stated that sustainable fisheries will depend on efficient management of fishing activity, because of the interaction between the impacts of fishing and effects of climate change. Fishing causes changes in the distribution, demography, and stock structure of individual species which in turn affect their resilience and ability to adapt to climate change, and other pressures. Fishing is the main occupation of the coastal communities which have been practiced by their fathers and passed on to the children because most of them have 10-30 years fishing experience. In order to meet the required implementation of the stipulated provisions under the climate conventions, the department of climate change unit in the Federal Ministry of Environment was created to handle national climate initiatives [11].

The effects of climate change may not only alter the biophysical processes of aquatic organisms, productivity of aquatic habitats and species distribution but will threaten livelihoods that are dependent on aquatic ecosystem. Susceptibility analysis provides a good tool to study and understand the impacts of climate change on fishermen livelihood. It is necessary to study the physical and human conditions that could create susceptibility to climate change. While there are studies on effects of climate change on the production and distribution of individual fisheries [12], little attention has been given to the consequences of changing fisheries ecosystems on fishermen, particularly to those of small scale fishermen in coastal areas of developing countries who are among the most susceptible to climate change. Fishing is a major source of income for many people and fishermen in the area, and the loss of fish stocks due to climate change can have a devastating impact on local livelihoods so therefore; coastal fishermen should be fully prepared at any havoc that can be caused by climate change susceptibility [13]. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of climate change on fishing activities in Local Government Area of Rivers State Nigeria.

Study Area

This research was conducted in Degema Local Government Area (LGA), Rivers State, Nigeria. It is an area renowned for its fishing activities due to the extensive network of rivers, creeks, and wetlands. Fishing is the primary livelihood for many residents, making it a critical sector for evaluating the impact of climate change. Three communities were selected which are; Tombia, Bakana and Usokun-Degema. These communities are major fishing communities located along key water bodies and represent diverse aquatic environments within the area.

Study Population

The study focused on fisherfolks who are directly involved in fishing and fish processing. The fisherfolks in these communities practice primarily artisanal and small-scale commercial fishing, which makes them highly dependent on the natural aquatic ecosystem and vulnerable to environmental changes like climate change.

Sampling Procedure

Community Selection

Three major fishing communities which include: Tombia, Bakana, and Usokun-Degema, were purposively selected for this study based on their prominence in fishing activities and their location in the riverine areas of Degema. These communities were chosen to ensure that this research covered a broad representation of fishing environments, from riverine to creek-side settlements, within Degema.

Simple Random Sampling of Fisherfolks

Simple random sampling was employed in this research to ensure unbiased selection of respondents. In each community, respondents were selected by approaching fisherfolks randomly from public fishing areas, fish landing sites, and market centers where fishing activities are concentrated.

Sample Size Determination

The sample size for this research was determined using Cochran’s (1977) formula, which is designed to calculate a representative sample for large populations when estimating proportions:

N₀ = Z²pq

           e²

Where:

_N? = required sample size

Z = Z-score corresponding to the desired confidence level (1.96 for 95% confidence)

p = estimated proportion of the population possessing the characteristic of interest (0.5, a conservative estimate)

q = 1 - p (the proportion not possessing the characteristic)

e = margin of error (0.10 or 10%)

Substituting values:   N₀ =   (1.96)² (0.5) (0.5)

                                                      (0.10)²

                                                N₀ = 96.04

This calculation yields a required sample size of approximately 96 respondents. However, to enhance the robustness of the study and account for potential non-responses, the sample size was increased to 120 respondents, distributed equally across the three selected fishing communities in Degema LGA, with 40 respondents selected from each of the three communities.

Data Collection

Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered through face-to-face interviews. The questionnaire was designed to assess fisherfolks' perceptions of climate change, observed changes in fishing patterns, and the impact of climate change on their livelihood. It included both closed-ended and open-ended questions to allow for quantitative analysis as well as qualitative insights. Interviews were conducted in local languages, with the assistance of trained local enumerators, to ensure that respondents fully understood the questions and provided accurate responses.

Statistical Analysis

The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and means were employed to summarize the demographic characteristics of respondents and their perceptions of climate change. The analysis was performed using R statistical software.

Ethical Considerations

Prior to data collection, informed consent was obtained from all participants. The purpose of the study was explained, and participants were assured of the confidentiality and anonymity of their responses.

Demographic Information of Respondents

The results of the demographic analysis of the respondents are presented in Table 1. The results revealed that 57% were identified as male, while 43% identified as female, indicating a male-dominated participation in fishing activities. The majority (53%) of the respondents had secondary education, followed by those with tertiary education (17.5%). However, only a small percentage had informal education (0.5%). The majority of respondents were married (56%), with singles accounting for 35%. A minimal percentage were divorced (6.7%) or widowed (2.5%). Most households had between 1 to 5 members (40%) and 6 to 10 members (42%), while 18% had 10 or more members. The predominant occupation among the respondents was full-time fishing (37.5%), with a notable percentage also engaged in fish marketing (26.7%) and part-time fishing (23.3%). A substantial portion of respondents (48.3%) had over 20 years of fishing experience, indicating a community with deep-rooted expertise in fishing activities.

Table 1: Socio-Economic Characteristics of the Respondents in the Study Area.

Respondent’s Perception of Climate Change for the Past Ten Years in the Study Area

The perceptions of the respondents as presented in Table 2 below using a Likert scale revealed a significant consensus regarding the changes in weather conditions over the past decade, with a mean score of 4.8, indicating that the majority strongly agree with this statement. Similarly, a high mean score of 4.6 reflects a general agreement that climate change has negatively impacted fishing activities. Furthermore, the data indicate that most respondents believe observed changes are attributable to climate change, with a mean score of 4.5. This perception is reinforced by similar mean scores for parameters such as the increase in sea level and human activities contributing to climate change, both rated at 4.5. Although the perception of an increase in water temperature garnered a mean score of 3.8, indicating a more varied opinion, it still reflects a noteworthy concern among respondents. This diversity in response highlights the complexity of how climate change is perceived in relation to specific environmental parameters in Degema fishing community.

Table 2: Perception of Respondents to Climate Changes in the Study Area.

SD-Strongly Disagree, D- Disagree, N- Neutral, A- Agree, SA-Strongly Agree

Human Activities Contributing To Climate among the Respondents in the Study Area

As illustrated in the Figure 1, artisanal refinery commonly known as kpo fire is the predominant activity contributing to climate change, with a significant 63% of respondents identifying it as a key factor. The use of chemicals for fish harvest accounted for 15% of the responses, indicating concerns over the environmental impact of chemical usage in fishing practices. Mangrove deforestation contributes to climate change, with 13% of respondents recognizing it as an issue, while plastic waste disposal represents 9%, reflecting a growing concern over pollution in the aquatic environment.

Figure 1: Human Activities Contributing To Climate Change in the Study Area.

Climate Change Influence on Fishery Activities in the Study Area

The concept of the respondents as presented in Table 3 below using a Likert scale shows a significant consensus concerning the decrease in fish abundance and distribution, with a mean score of 4.8, indicating that the majority strongly agree with this statement. Also an average mean score of 4.5 reflects the responses that the impacts of climate change have negatively decreased the catch rate for fishing activities. The increase in new specie introduction, with a mean score of 1.4 representing the overall strongly disagree which was perceived by the respondents. Although the concept of increase in fish species disappearance accessed a mean score of 4.4 indicating a strong varied point and also disruption of fishing activities caused by extreme weather conditions due to climate change was reported by a mean score of 4.2, which are both comprehended and a major concern among the respondents. Additionally, the increased loss of fishing gears and crafts represents a mean score of 3.8, indicating the respondent’s opinion and yet reflects a significant concern among them. Therefore, the variety of the responses emphasize the difficulty of the perception of climate change in relations to their adaptive features in the study area.

Table 3: Effects of Climate Change In Fishing Activities of Fisherfolks the Study Area.

SD-Strongly Disagree, D- Disagree, N-Neutral, A-Agree, SA-Strongly Agree

Fish Specie Disappearances in the Study Area

As illustrated in the Figure 2 below, barracuda as part of the disappeared fish species indicates a significant 0.8% of the responses. Mudskipper which is predominantly the most disappeared specie contributes to 49% due to the effects of climate change. Mullets as reported by the respondents, represents 0.5% as the lowest disappeared specie, oysters with a significant 18% was also indicated by the respondents as part of the aquatic species that has disappeared by the effects of climate change. Shinynose as a notable fish species was reported by 17%, identifying its absences, while the silver catfish represents 0.7% which reflects similarly as the lower parameter compared to other fish species that has disappeared in these fishing communities.

Figure 9: Notable Fish Species Disappearances in the Study Area.

Effect of Climate Change on Livelihood Activities of Fisher folks in the Study Area

Likert scale was also used to present the approach of the respondents in Table 4 showing a significant concurrence regarding the decreased income of fisherfolks, with a mean score of 4.4, signifying both the agree/strongly agree of the report by the respondents. Decreased employment opportunities for fisherfolks, with a mean score of 4.7, represents the majority strongly agree of the responses affecting their livelihood due to climate change. Thus, an average mean score of 4.5 reflects the responses that the impacts of climate change have effectively increased cost the cost of fishing operations during its activities. Increased conflict for fishing areas which was reported by 1.8 of the respondents which can be classified as disagree accurately from the statement. Furthermore, decreased fish food availability accessed a mean score of 4.6 of responses, indicating how climate change have impacted on the availability of food resources and other sources related to these fishing communities.

Table 4: Effect of Climate Change on Livelihood of Fisherfolks in the Study Area.

SD-Strongly Disagree, D- Disagree, N- Neutral, A-Agree, SA-Strongly Agree

Demographic Information of Respondents

The demographic data of the respondents provides a foundational understanding of the socio-economic characteristics of fisherfolks within the study area. A total of 120 respondents participated in the study, with a gender distribution of 57% males and 43% females. This finding agrees with existing literature that indicates a predominance of male participation in fishing activities, which is often attributed to socio-cultural norms and economic factors that favour men's involvement in such roles [14]. The educational profile suggests that a significant number of fisherfolks possess adequate educational backgrounds, which could influence their fishing practices and ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Research has shown that education plays a crucial role in enhancing awareness and adaptation strategies among fishing communities, particularly in the context of climate change [15]. The marital status of the respondents revealed that a majority (56%) were married, which may have implications for household dynamics and economic responsibilities. This finding is consistent with studies indicating that married individuals are often more engaged in community activities and decision-making processes [16]. The family type data further supports this, with 72% of respondents belonging to nuclear families, suggesting a structure that may facilitate more direct communication and resource allocation among immediate family members, as opposed to larger extended families. Regarding household size, a notable 40% of respondents reported having between 1 to 5 members, while 42% indicated having more than 10 members in their households. The household size may affect fishing strategies and resource management, as smaller families might rely more on individual catch for sustenance, while larger families may necessitate collective efforts in fishing activities. Occupationally, the data showed that 37% of respondents identified as full-time fisherfolks, while 27% were engaged in fish marketing and 12% in fish processing. The presence of part-time fisherfolks (23%) indicates a level of diversification in livelihoods, which can be essential for resilience against the economic uncertainties posed by climate change and resource depletion [17]. Fishing experience revealed that 48% of respondents had more than 20 years of fishing experience, highlighting a wealth of knowledge within the community that could be pivotal in implementing effective adaptation strategies in response to climate change impacts. Studies have shown that the experience of fisherfolks is a critical factor in their ability to cope with and adapt to environmental changes [18].

Respondents Perception of Climate Change For the Past Ten Years in the Study Area

The results presented in the survey regarding the perception of climate change among respondents in these fishing communities indicated a significant awareness of the changes occurring in their environment. The data collected reveals a consensus among the majority of respondents that climate change is a tangible phenomenon that has negatively impacted their fishing activities and overall livelihood. A striking 4.8 mean score for the perception that "there has been changes in weather conditions over the past 10 years" shows the community's recognition of shifting climatic patterns. This perception aligns with global observations of climate change, where altered weather conditions have been linked to various environmental impacts, including shifts in fish populations and habitat degradation [19]. The respondents’ acknowledgment of the effects of climate change is further corroborated by a 4.5 mean score regarding observed changes attributed to climate change, suggesting a strong belief that these phenomena are directly connected to broader climatic trends. The agreement that climate change has adversely affected fishing activities, with a 4.6 mean score, reveals the deep concern within the community regarding their primary source of income. Fisherfolks in these communities are likely experiencing increased water temperatures, changes in fish migration patterns, and alterations in aquatic ecosystems, all of which are documented consequences of climate change [20]. Furthermore, the recognition of increased flooding, rising sea levels, and intensified rainfall reflects an acute awareness of the environmental challenges they face, with mean scores ranging from 4.1 to 4.5 for various parameters.

The association between human activities-such as kpo fire, mangrove deforestation, and plastic waste disposal—and climate change demonstrates an awareness of local practices that contribute to environmental deterioration. The identification of kpo fire as the most significant contributor (62%) emphasizes the urgent need for interventions to mitigate such activities and promote sustainable practices. Amadi et al. [21] quoted that, Kpofire, as described by the Niger deltans, is a process of burning crude oil by illegal oil operatives or thieves at isolated locations called bunkering sites or dumpsites in order to extract refined petroleum products. It is also a local word that is used to describe fire incident that take place when illegal refining of crude oil or breakage of fuel pipe line is carried out. The design for the extraction of the petroleum products involves the sections of steaming and collection.The perceptions of the respondents reflect a critical understanding of climate change and its multifaceted impacts on their livelihoods. It also highlights the importance of developing targeted policies and educational programs that address both the immediate and long-term challenges posed by climate change in thesefishing communities.

Climate Change Influence on Fishery Activities in the Study Area

The results presented in the survey proposing the concept of climate change impacted on the respondents in three fishing communities identifying a noteworthy report on the changes arising in their coastal environment. The result reflects on the concurrence among the majority of responses proposed that is a visible action that have negatively influences their fishery activities which they are dependent for sustainable livelihoods. An accountable 4.8 mean score for the concept that “there have been decrease in fish abundance and distribution” navigates the community’s notice on fish migration patterns caused by change in weather conditions. The respondents’ recognition on the influence of climate change is further notified by a 4.5 mean score regarding “decreased catch rate” on fishery activities attributed by climate change, implying that the rate of catch is not stable, broader by climate effects [22]. The disagreement that climate change have partially increased new specie introduction with a mean score of 1.4, reflects on the major concern on the climatic conditions hindering the experience of new species in the water bodies. Furthermore, the fisherfolks in these communities are likely to experience the disappearance of fish species with a 4.4 mean score posing to the agreement of fish migration, extinction and endangering, depleting the population of fish species in fishery activities. Whereas, the perception of extreme weather triggered by the effects of climate change with 4.2 mean score and increased loss of fishing gears and crafts with 3.8 showing that its neutral, has been observed severely by the fisherfolks in these fishing communities [23].

The aggressiveness of the impacts of climate change in the community revealed, the disappearance of fish specie such as the barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) represented 0.8% significant, reflecting that the migration patterns has been disturbed effectively. The respondents argued that, mudskipper (Periophthalmus barbarous) have been the most predominantly disappeared specie with 49% significant attributed by climate trends. The responses thereby, went further on a specie known as mullet (Mugil cephalus) prescribed by the fisherfolks, represents 0.5% significant, oysters (Ostreidae) with 18% significant was also appraised by the fisherfolks as part of the aquatic species that has disappeared by the adverse effects of climate change. Shinynose (Polydactylus quadrifilis) which was also classified as a notable fish species in fishing activities of 17% significant, reflecting its disappearance greatly disturbed by climatic conditions [24]. The silver catfish (Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus) was also among the species that was pointed out by the fisherfolks in Degema represented 0.7% significant which have slightly disappeared in these fishing communities.

Effect of Climate Change on Livelihood Activities of Fisherfolks in the Study Area

In this survey, the results presented is regarding the awareness of the acute effects of climatic weather conditions posing and causing havoc on the livelihood of fisherfolks in these communities , reporting a perceived impacts of the climate change causing/occurring in their livelihood environment. The responses of the fisherfolks occurred concerning “decreased income of fisherfolks” with 4.4 mean score agreeing that the effectiveness of climate change has led to depletion of fish size, texture, quality and quantity which has adversely affects the income of fisherfolks in the study area [25]. The respondents adequately described that “there has been decreased employment opportunities for fisherfolks” with 4.7 mean score, arising due to the impacts of climate trends which can lead to low fish catch or distribution which most fisherfolks processed and marketed for sustainable livelihoods. Thus, the respondents concisely reflects on increased cost of fishing operations with 4.5 mean score which is mostly affected by climate change, increasing the the cost of labour and operations during fishing activities among fisherfolks. The disagreement arises regarding increased conflict for fishing areas with 1.8 mean score of the respondents, claiming that there have no much occurrence of conflicts during fishing activities in these fishing communities.

Furthermore, based on the agreement on decreased fish food availability with 4.6 mean score, responded by the fisher folks showing the insignificant reduction in food resources as a means for sustainable livelihoods, impacted by climate change sequences in these fishing communities. Therefore, the livelihoods of the fisherfolks is greatly affected by climatic weather conditions, reducing access to nutritious food, particularly protein-rich fish to these communities (fisherfolks), causes impacts on household food security and well-being of their livelihood as well as bringing forth tangible phenomenon which can significantly posed some threats on the livelihoods of fisherfolks dependent on coastal community for survival and sustainability in these fishing communities [26].

Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Fisherfolks in the Study Area

Ekweozor [27], observed that in Degema community, the climate change adaptation strategies for fisherfolks involves the diversification of fishing gear and techniques, sustainable fisheries management practices, fisherfolk cooperatives and associations as well as climate-resilient fisheries practices. But from the results presented in this survey, rooting towards the climatic adaptations strategies for fisherfolks in Degema, it was observed that not every adaptations strategies was evenly practiced among the fisherfolks. The respondents agreed that increased in migration patterns with 4.6 mean score, accepted that some of the fisherfolks has migrated to other community for sustainability. The respondents’ acknowledgement on the impacts of climate change concerning the increased of the diversification of livelihood activities contributing 4.5 mean score, having alternative livelihoods, such as tourism, teaching and agriculture, shift in fishing locations and timing as well as ecological restoration of mangrove forests and coastal ecosystems [28].

The fisherfolks disagreed on the presence of government support representing 2.1 mean score from the statement, showing that there has not been any form of government support as a means of climate change adaptation strategies required due to its negative impacts among the community. Thereby, the respondents further the disagreement on the presence of coperative/non-governmental accounted, with 1.7 mean score. Implying the absence of both the strategic methods and which has not be applicable among the fisherfolk in Degema fishing community. The community approach on the basis on sources of livelihood diversification reflects on the illegal mining known as kpo fire contributed 35% according to the respondents, which is significantly the major diversified sources of livelihood for fisherfolks as a result of the adverse effects of climate change which has hinder their fishing activities for sustainable livelihood [29]. Much responses was also acquired on the livelihoods diversification of transportation and mangrove sales, significantly 10% of both as another source of livelihood of the fisherfolks. because public modes of transportation have become necessary tothese communities and their hinterlands due to the high density of activities demanding high capacity transport modes that are economical, energy efficient and providing service delivery to all people [30].

Additionally, the respondents accepted farming reported by 15% as a source of livelihood practiced for the survival and sustainability among themselves in order to escape the effects of climatic trends when striking. Moreover, the fisherfolks stretches further on militancy which also known as piracy representing 20% of the respondents, serving as a diversified source of livelihood to most fisherfolks. Thus, militancy and piracy works in a very similar way. According to [31], refers to maritime-based criminal activities, including theft, kidnapping, arm robbery, and violence, targeting fishing vessels, crew, and cargo. Nonetheless, responses were also received concerning both politics and trading noteworthy of 15% each, modified as a means of livelihood of fisherfolks which be performed either within or outside the Degema community for political power, economic gain, income, self-employment and sustainable livelihood of the fisherfolks (FAO, 2020). Therefore, diversification of livelihood by fisherfolks in Degema involves the capabilities, assets (stores, resources, claims and access) and activities required for a means of living [32]. The ability to recover from stress and shocks impacted by climatic weather conditions, maintain or enhance its capabilities and assets, and provide opportunities of a maintainable means of living for the next generation, makes livelihood sustainable [33].

The impacts of climate change on fishing activities in some fishing communities in Degema local government area of Rivers state, Nigeria, are significant and multifaceted. The decline in fish populations, shifts in species distribution, and increased vulnerability to diseases and parasites have all affected the livelihoods of fisherfolks and the overall economy of the local community. The extreme climatic changes have led to shifts in the distribution of Fish species, emphasising that traditional fishing grounds of the community may no longer be productive, and fisherfolks may find it more challenging to access profitable species, Making it difficult for fisherfolks to maintain their livelihoods and sustain their communities due to the shift and distribution of fish species caused by climate change. Foremost, the negative effect of climate change can increase susceptibility to diseases and parasites which poses some threats to both fisherfolks and fish species. Also, the rise in sea surface temperature, salinity and also rainfall patterns due to climate change has also led to intense flooding, erosion and a decline in fish populations causing them to migrate or go on extinct, because many fish species are sensitive to temperature changes and salinity level which then may migrate to cooler waters with either low or high salinity or experience reduced reproductive success. Thereby, the impacts of this climatic conditions affects the livelihoods of fisher folks making it difficult to sustain their livelihoods as fisherfolks may face increased competition for the remaining fish, leading to lower catches and reduced income in these fishing communities.

To address these climatic challenges, several recommendations should be put-forth based on the above conclusion which are:

• Implement sustainable fishing practices: This involves encouraging the use of sustainable fishing methods, such as catch-and-release fishing or the use of selective fishing gear, to help maintain healthy fish populations and reduce the impact of fishing activities on the marine environment.
• Engage in community-based adaptation: Community-based adaptation (CBA) involves the process by which the state governments is present for the fisherfolks, to identify and implement adaptation measures that are tailored to their specific needs and circumstances. Community-based adaptation (CBA) can also involve the participation of local stakeholders in decision-making processes, ensuring that adaptation measures are effective and equitable to fisherfolks in Degema community.
• Enhance community resilience: It deals with supporting the development of climate-resilient of fisherfolks by providing training and education on sustainable fishing practices, promoting alternative livelihoods, and investing in infrastructure and resources to help the fisherfolks adapt to the impacts of climate change.
• Encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing: Foster collaboration among stakeholders, including fisherfolks, policymakers, scientists, and NGOs, to share knowledge and experiences on effective approaches to address the impacts of climate change on fishing activities in Degema community.

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