Global ecological and economic connections in Arctic and sub-Arctic crab markets

Abstract

High latitude marine systems are experiencing climate change and other human-induced impacts that outpace global averages. Communities dependent on these systems are also undergoing complex economic and socioecological changes. Ecological, economic, market and community developments in Arctic and sub-Arctic crab fisheries are increasingly complex and uncertain. These escalating risks and complexities threaten well-being, social and ecological integrity of dependent communities and ecosystems. Through interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary collaboration, we examine the escalation to illustrate how global ecological and economic connections are co-evolving between nature, society, and industry. The article demonstrates how informal, integrative cooperation with broad stakeholder participation at a global scale, focused on information sharing and scientific cooperation, addresses local and regional dynamic markets and ecosystems for improved economic and ecological outcomes.