Map of the Week – Ensuring Sustainability in Fisheries
Did you know that, on 9 January 2024, a comprehensive overhaul of the European Union fisheries control system entered into force, marking a significant step towards sustainable fishing practices? The updated regulations aim to modernise monitoring efforts for fishing activities, both within EU waters and for EU vessels. The overarching objectives include preventing overfishing, harmonising control systems, and promoting fairness across different sea basins and fleets. By transitioning to full digitalisation, new technologies and modern data management, the EU aims to enhance monitoring and traceability throughout the supply chain, from catch to consumer. The new regulations also contribute to combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Sustainable fisheries are vital for future food security, driving the EU's commitment to set sustainable fishing limits in European waters. The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) aims to promote a healthier marine environment and maintain the profitability of the sector in the coming decades. The implementation of community-led local development (CLLD), now supported by the Fisheries and Aquaculture Monitoring, Evaluation, and Local Support Network (FAMENET), plays a crucial role in this endeavor. CLLD empowers local communities to drive positive change, with Fisheries Local Action Groups (FLAGs) serving as key facilitators. FAMENET supports approximately 350 FLAGs across the EU! These groups implement local development strategies, fostering economic growth and environmental sustainability in fisheries regions. Through collaborative efforts, FLAGs enable the support and development of thousands of projects led by local stakeholders. The map of this week identifies where FLAGs are located. Click on the icons to find out more about FLAGs and the projects they are undertaking. By empowering local communities, the EU aims to foster a sustainable blue economy, to ensure a sustainable future for its fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
What can you do to support sustainable fisheries and aquaculture?
- Get a better understanding of sustainable aquaculture ;
- Explore teaching resources developed by the Marine Stewardship Council;
- Check out the TasteTheOcean recipes and the Ocean Cookbook ;
- Consult Mr. Goodfish for advice on the sustainable consumption of seafood products.
The data in this map are provided by the European Commission.