UK Proposes Wider Ban on Destructive Bottom Trawling
The UK government proposes significantly expanding its ban on destructive bottom trawling in English waters, increasing the protected area from 18,000km2 to 48,000km2. This expansion, affecting 41 Marine Protected Areas, aims to safeguard vulnerable marine habitats and species. A 12-week consultation with the fishing industry is underway before implementation. While the government highlights the environmental damage caused by this fishing practice, industry representatives dispute the extent of the negative impacts. The announcement coincides with the UN Ocean Conference, where pressure mounts for greater global protection of ocean areas through the ratification of the High Seas Treaty.
John Q. Hosedrinker