Review of adaptations of U.S. Commercial Fisheries in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic using the Resist‐Accept‐Direct (RAD) framework

Abstract

The COVID‐19 pandemic transformed social and economic systems globally, including fisheries systems. Decreases in seafood demand, supply chain disruptions, and public safety regulations required numerous adaptations to maintain the livelihoods and social resilience of fishing communities. Surveys, interviews, and focus groups were undertaken to assess impacts from and adaptive responses to the pandemic in commercial fisheries in five U.S. regions: the Northeast, California, Alaska, the U.S. Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands. Fishery adaptation strategies were categorized using the Resist–Accept–Direct (RAD) framework, a novel application to understand social transformation in a social‐ecological system in response to a disturbance. A number of innovations emerged, or were facilitated, that could improve the fisheries' resilience to future disruptions. Fishers with diversified options and strategic flexibility generally fared better, i.e., had fewer disruptions to their livelihoods. Using the RAD framework to identify adaptation strategies from fishery system actors highlights opportunities for improving resilience of fisheries social‐ecological systems to future stressors.

Supply Chain Response during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multiple-Case Study

“…Meanwhile, Ramanathan et al [17] proposed 15 strategies to food, sports, and fashion SC managers for facilitating the response before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Smith et al [18] stated that fish merchants in the United States responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by developing strategies such as sharing and hiring new crew, donating fish to humanitarian organizations, and improving communication between fishermen and fish processors. Zhang et al [19] reported how specific SC management strategies such as effective and reliable leadership, unity of purpose, integrated and strong digital infrastructure and capabilities, constant learning, and the development of resilience were essential in the response of the personal protective equipment company in British Columbia.…”