The evolution and effectiveness of China's marine carbon sink fishery policies

Abstract

The marine carbon sink fishery (MCSF) is an innovative and sustainable development model that integrates carbon sinks with fisheries. The Chinese government has actively promoted this concept by issuing a series of related policies. This study systematically reviewed China's MCSF policies using both quantitative and qualitative analyses to examine their evolution, characteristics, and effectiveness. Through a comprehensive analysis of 135 MCSF policies issued by various levels of government in China's coastal areas from 1985 to 2023, three developmental stages were identified: the initial exploration period (1985–2009), the rapid development period (2010–2015), and the optimization and adjustment period (2016–2023). The characteristics of policy evolution were mainly reflected in three aspects. First, the issuance power and functioning power of policies exhibited a growing trend. Second, the promulgators of policies were mainly local governments, with a trend towards diversification. Third, support for scientific research and skills development has gradually been strengthened. The results of a fixed-effects model showed that policy power had a significant positive impact on the development of MCSFs, with high-intensity policies promoting their healthy growth. In the future, newly formulated policies should prioritize establishing a multi-channel, multi-level funding system, advancing the integration of digital technology, enhancing the carbon trading mechanism, and establishing a comprehensive management platform for smart MCSFs.