Under this project, the International Pole & Line Foundation (IPNLF) have been working closely with Plymouth Marine Laboratory (PML) to develop an analytical model that can help to capture and quantify these socio-economic benefits. This model in turn has been informed by the community wellbeing approach that has been developed by the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS).
Prior to the CoVID19 pandemic, IPNLF and PML successfully finalised the overall research framework and methodological approach of the project, and also received ethical clearance from University of Plymouth. This has paved the way for primary data collection to commence after the end of the pandemic and allowed additional time for ensuring the correct data processing protocols are put in place. During this time, IPNLF have also explored creative solutions to ensuring the project continues to progress, conducting remote pilot survey interviews online, where possible, with its members to help refine the surveys ahead of starting fieldwork.
Currently, domestic travel is not deemed safe in Indonesia, and this has meant that IPNLF field staff have been unable to travel to the project research sites in Ambon and Bitung to start collecting data. In response to these circumstances, IPNLF have turned attention to collating and analysing pre-existing industry data accessed directly from relevant industry partners, non-government organizations and government institutions wherever possible. Based on the current best available information, IPNLF are optimistic that field work can begin later this year and look forward to continuing with this important piece of research.
You can read the GCRF Blue Communities Newletter here and click here for the Project 5 Introduction