COMFISH

Title: Strengthening the impact of fisheries related research through dissemination, communication and technology transfer

Summary: ComFish takes the view that it is not sufficient to focus on pressing issues in fisheries or on communication impasses between stakeholders in isolation (scientists industry policy makers). A broader view is necessary, and this is very much in line with the ecosystem approach of the revision of the Common Fisheries Policy to be implemented in 2012.

In this frame of mind, ComFish aims to identify important fisheries topics with long term impacts and ascertain whether scientific results have been properly communicated to fisheries stakeholders. If yes, why and how was this done? If not, then the question must be answered which communication needs must be addressed. What are the related challenges, needed actions and possible solutions? ComFish will identify these topics and through five regional participatory stakeholder events address these communication impasses.

Next, ComFish will use the outcome of the events to prepare Information Packages, that include audio-visual materials, and communicate the identified priority issues to a wider circle of stakeholders as well as to EU citizens. Finally, ComFish will organise a Partnering Event to facilitate network building amongst stakeholders, to jointly address and overcome communication impasses and to stimulate collaborations. All activities are supported by a robust science based impact analysis.

ComFish has nine partners in eight EU countries: four are communication specialists and five are institutions engaged in marine research and policy advice. The project benefits from an extensive Advisory Board with representation from all major fisheries stakeholders in Europe as well as over 40 Project Associated Members, mostly FP6/FP7 research project co-ordinators.

For more information, please visit EurOcean Knowledge Gate.