2026 update: LED 111 advancing SDG 14.4 across Southeast Asia

In our 2024 article on LED 111’s contribution to sustainable fishing (link), we highlighted how energy-efficient lighting can support responsible harvesting. Two years on, the urgency of SDG 14.4 ‘Sustainable Fishing” has only increased.

Globally, progress remains challenging. Recent UN data shows that 37.7% of fish stocks are overfished, and the share of sustainable stocks has declined to around 62% - a clear signal that stronger, science-based management and efficient fishing practices are still needed. (Sustainable Development Goals).

Against this backdrop, LED 111’s role in Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia is becoming more tangible and measurable.

Vietnam: from efficiency to selectivity

In Vietnam, LED 111 continues to support the transition from traditional lighting to optimized spectral systems (cyan + 3800K). This not only reduces fuel consumption but also improves target-species aggregation, helping fishermen catch more efficiently rather than increasing fishing effort. By lowering energy use and improving catch precision, LED 111 contributes to reducing pressure on marine resources, aligned with SDG 14.4’s focus on sustainable harvesting.

Philippines: responding to energy and sustainability pressures

Amid rising fuel costs and an energy emergency, LED 111’s local partners are helping fleets adopt energy-saving lighting configurations and dimming technologies. These innovations allow fishermen to optimize light intensity and reduce unnecessary fuel burn, directly lowering operational pressure on fishing grounds while maintaining productivity.

Indonesia: scaling sustainable practices

In Indonesia, where small- and medium-scale fisheries dominate, LED 111 is supporting fleets to modernize lighting systems with lower energy consumption and longer lifespan. This reduces both cost and environmental impact, enabling broader adoption of sustainable fishing practices across dispersed coastal communities.

Looking forward

As highlighted in our 2024 post, technology alone cannot solve overfishing - but it is a critical enabler. By combining energy efficiency, spectral optimization, and field-driven innovation, LED 111 continues to support fisheries in Southeast Asia to move closer to science-based, sustainable harvesting.

From Vietnam to the wider region, our commitment remains clear: help fishermen catch smarter, reduce impact, and contribute meaningfully to restoring fish stocks.