The document provides tools for managing the relationship between commercial fishing and the EU’s most valuable marine ecosystems.
The European Commission released new guidance to help EU Member States better protect marine Natura 2000 sites while supporting a sustainable future for Europe’s fisheries.
The document provides practical tools for managing the relationship between commercial and recreational fishing activities and the EU’s most valuable marine ecosystems. It marks an important step in strengthening both biodiversity protection and the long-term resilience of the fishing sector.
Healthy seas are essential for fishing. Biodiversity-rich habitats – such as reefs, sandbanks and seagrass meadows – are essential spawning and nursery grounds for many fish species.
Protecting and restoring Natura 2000 sites is not just about conservation: it is also a direct investment in the sustainability of fisheries and the communities that depend on them.
The guidance will help Member States deliver on EU and global biodiversity goals, strengthen the implementation of EU environment and fisheries laws, and foster greater cooperation across sectors and maritime borders. It directly supports the objectives of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the EU Marine Action Plan.
Importantly, it also seeks to improve dialogue with fishers and other stakeholders by clarifying legal requirements and encouraging their active role in managing marine protected areas.
Key elements of the guidance
The new document helps Member States to identify various fisheries conservation measures, which can be adopted by the EU or, under certain conditions, Member States, as national conservation measures. It recommends a clear process to:
- Assess if fishing activities threaten protected habitats and species in Natura 2000 sites
- Evaluate potential impacts based on site-specific conservation objectives
- Put in place measures to prevent habitat deterioration and significant disturbance of species, as well as necessary restoration measures.
More Information
Marine Natura 2000 | European Commission
Natura 2000 viewer | European Environment Agency
Source: European Commission | Energy, Climate change, Environment | Environment (https://tinyurl.com/yvd6r6xr)