Critical factor identification of marine ranching ecological security with hierarchical DEMATEL

Marine ranching as an ecological fishery proliferation mode has attracted the attention of various countries after its emergence and has become a hotspot for marine economic development. The marine ranching ecological security (MRES) refers to a healthy state where the system, in which the resources and environment are stable and sustainable, can realize its functions properly and has a certain resilience to external threats. MRES is the basis for achieving the economic and social benefits of marine ranching, but there are few studies concern about assessing it currently. Therefore, this study combines the driver-pressure-state-impact-response (DPSIR) model, the technology-environment-resources-economy (TERE) model, and the hierarchical DEMATEL method to identify the critical factors for the MRES system. Finally, according to the relations among critical factors, this study makes recommendations for improvements with specific measures based on the advanced experience and the development status of marine ranching in China. Effective critical factors identification of MRES will help point out the direction for improving ecological security, and promote the sustainable development of marine ranching.

Automated summary

Marine ranching, as an ecological fishery proliferation mode, has attracted attention for marine economic development. However, there is limited research on assessing the ecological security of marine ranching. This study combines multiple models and methods to identify critical factors for the marine ranching ecological security system (MRES) and provides recommendations for improvement to promote sustainable development.