Report Highlights Potential Billions in Damage from Bottom Trawling

A recent environmental report reveals that bottom trawling in European waters may result in annual damages amounting to as much as EUR10 billion. This fishing practice, which involves dragging large nets across the seafloor, poses a significant threat to vital marine habitats.

According to research conducted by various experts, including contributions from the marine conservation organization National Geographic Pristine Seas, the ecological and economic ramifications of bottom trawling are alarming. This technique not only leads to high levels of bycatch but also severely disrupts ecosystems, including the destruction of habitats such as shellfish beds and coral reefs. Despite its economic significance, the true costs of this practice are often obscured and supported by government subsidies.

The analysis focused on data from 2016 to 2021, contrasting the revenues generated by the fishing industry with the associated costs. The fishing sector reportedly generates an average revenue of EUR4.5 billion annually, which is supplemented by its contributions to food supply and employment. However, when accounting for state subsidies, bycatch, and greenhouse gas emissions, the fishing sector experiences a net deficit ranging from EUR330 million to EUR10.8 billion each year.

Experts describe the state of bottom trawling as both an ecological and economic disaster, noting that it contributes only a small fraction--approximately two percent--to Europe's supply of animal protein while exacting a heavy toll on biodiversity. The practice also raises concerns regarding climate change, as the sediment disturbed during trawling operations can release stored carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Furthermore, the research indicated that over twelve percent of bottom trawling activities occur within marine protected areas (MPAs), such as the Sylter Outer Reef and the Fehmarn Belt in Germany. Ceasing bottom trawling in these regions alone could significantly mitigate environmental damage.

The findings underscore the urgent need for reevaluating fishing practices and policies to safeguard marine ecosystems and ensure sustainable fishing practices moving forward.