Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) Management in Tropical Marine Food Production Areas Amidst Climate Change

Fundamental to coastal communities is the utilization of the marine environment for food and livelihood. In tropical areas, food production depends on the harvest and/or culture of organisms on the coasts, which now have multiple uses and receive anthropogenic inputs from both the land and sea. Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) have been recorded in many of these production sites, with observed health, socio-economic, and some environmental effects for various known or yet-to-be-understood reasons. A critical review of the management schemes/approaches of HAB events in tropical food production areas is presented, focusing on the Philippines, where HABs and their impacts have been recorded for over thirty (30) years. The affected areas are sometimes declared “disaster areas” so authorities can heighten mitigation and relief efforts. Some HAB management schemes and methods are briefly described to serve as models for reviewing and enhancing the current HAB management scheme. Although the impacts of climate change on HABs have not been substantially well-studied, it is prudent to have future-ready management of food production that considers this phenomenon as a significant factor, particularly in areas with long coastlines. This contribution helps to achieve SDGs 1 (no poverty), 2 (zero hunger), 11 (sustainable cities and communities), 13 (climate action), and, especially, SDG 14 (life below water).