Mediterranean hake and Norway lobster stocks at risk – While we enjoy our favourite fish dishes, a worrying reality is emerging: many fish species in the western Mediterranean are under threat. Oceana Europe, in response to a recent report by the European Commission, launches an urgent appeal to stop overfishing and recover populations of European hake and Norway lobster.
Oceana’s warning: the Western Mediterranean is at risk
According to Oceana, despite the efforts of EU member states such as France, Italy and Spain, 57% of fish populations in the western Mediterranean are still overfished. This figure, provided by Oceana, is worrying, with some populations of purple, pink and red shrimp in a critical state. If action is not taken now, these species could reach unsustainable levels for commercial fishing.
Javier Lopez: a glimmer of hope
Javier Lopez, Director of Oceana’s Sustainable Fisheries Campaign in Europe, underlines the importance of the European Commission’s Western Mediterranean Multi-Year Plan. ‘The European Commission’s determination for countries to continue implementing the Plan brings with it a glimmer of hope for the overfished species in these waters,’ says Lopez. He urges France, Italy and Spain to set fishing opportunities for next year at levels that will ensure the recovery of these species, with knock-on benefits for marine ecosystems and the future of fisheries.
Actions needed for sustainability
Starting in 2025, the sustainability of the exploitation of fish populations will become an obligation. 1 January is the target date set by the Plan to ensure that fishing mortality rates are within sustainable levels consistent with maximum sustainable yield. To achieve this goal, Oceana urges Member States to:
1. Allocate fishing days to trawlers according to scientific recommendations.
2. Improve gear selectivity by reducing catches of juvenile species such as hake.
3. Close areas to trawling to protect essential fish habitats.
4. Take remedial measures for all critical populations.
Future Perspectives
The European Commission is required to submit a report to the European Parliament and the Council to assess the achievement of the Plan’s objectives five years after its entry into force. The results of this report will be used to present to Member States, in mid-September, a proposal on the definition of fishing opportunities in the Mediterranean for next year.
Oceana Europe’s appeal highlights the urgency of taking action to safeguard the fishery resources of the western Mediterranean. Collaboration between France, Italy and Spain is crucial to ensure a sustainable future for these species and the entire marine ecosystem. As we enjoy our summer fish dishes, let us remember the importance of sustainable fishing practices to preserve marine biodiversity for future generations.
Mediterranean hake and langoustine stocks at risk
