The application of the precautionary principle to a commercial fishery whose primary catch species is in decline would result in
A)many years in which no fish are harvested at all.
B)an optimal population size that is just about the maximum sustainable yield.
C)a total allowable catch above the best estimate of the maximum sustainable yield.
D)a total allowable catch below the best estimate of the maximum sustainable yield.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The precautionary principle would suggest taking a conservative approach and setting the total allowable catch below the best estimate of the maximum sustainable yield to ensure that the fish population has a chance to recover. This may result in lower harvests in the short term but would lead to a more sustainable fishery in the long term.

The Application of the Precautionary Principle to a Commercial Fishery