JUST TRANSITION PATHWAYS FOR SMALL-SCALE FISHERIES: A CARBON FOOTPRINT AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC EXPLORATORY ASSESSMENT IN SINDANGAN, ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE

This study examines the socio demographic,livelihood,governance, and carbon emission characteristics of small scale fisheries across three coastal barangays in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, empirical findings within social well-being,gendered livelihood,and fisheries sustainability frameworks.Results reveal gender-based labor roles, age and education-based differentiation in fishing participation,and widespread dependence on rented and non-registered vessels, reflecting structural constraints rather than individual choice or non compliance.These conditions shape material,relational,and subjective well being,reinforcing economic vulnerability and limited access to assets,governance mechanisms,and livelihood diversification. Analysis of fuel use and CO2 emissions shows substantial site-level variation in carbon efficiency despite similar gears,vessels, and fishing distances, with trip frequency and operational practices emerging as key drivers of emissions intensity. Overall, the findings highlight the importance of integrated,locally grounded fisheries policies that address social equity,governance barriers, and operational efficiency to enhance both livelihood resilience and climate sustainability in small-scale fisheries.