Fishing News 20240729-20240804
Latest Fishing News 20240729-20240804 – Here you can check out some international news that has something to do with fishing. Some items are very actual.
Norwegian Crackdown on Russian Fishing Vessels: A New Era of Restrictions (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
July 29, 2024
(source: thefishingdaily.com – by Oliver McBride)
Tightening the Reins
The Norwegian government is implementing new regulations aimed at curbing the activities of Russian fishing vessels in Norwegian waters. These measures, initially announced on July 5th, will come into effect on August 1st. The goal is to limit the amount of time Russian vessels can spend in Norwegian ports, thereby reducing opportunities for illegal activities.
Restricting Access and Movement
The new regulations impose significant limitations on Russian fishing vessels. The authorities will allow access to only one of the designated ports – Tromsø, Kirkenes, or Båtsfjord – for a maximum of five working days, with a limit of seven calendar days. This restriction applies only during the week, with weekends excluded. Furthermore, there must be a minimum three-day interval between consecutive port stays in mainland Norway.
Designated Locations and Exceptions (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
To further control access, specific quays and terminals have been designated for Russian fishing vessels. The authorities will restrict access in Tromsø to quays 20, 21, 22, 23, and 38 in Breivika, as well as Troms Freezing Terminal AS and Tromsø Mechanical AS. Similar restrictions apply to Båtsfjord and Kirkenes.
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While these restrictions are strict, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs allows for exceptions. The Ministry, however, grants these exceptions only in special cases and can impose conditions. The Ministry also provides a comprehensive guide outlining the port ban and exceptions, which is part of the sanctions regulations under Ukraine § 19a.
Beyond Port Restrictions
It is important to note that while Russian fishing vessels may be granted access to these three ports, they remain subject to other sanctions regulations. For instance, despite the port ban, § 17i of the regulations allows for the sale of maritime diesel and similar necessities for vessels’ own use in ports on Svalbard and fishing vessels in Tromsø, Kirkenes, or Båtsfjord. However, professional assistance for refuelling is not permitted.
A Statement of Commitment
The implementation of these new measures underscores Norway’s commitment to regulating maritime activities and enforcing international sanctions. By restricting access to its ports and imposing strict limitations on the activities of Russian fishing vessels, Norway demonstrates its resolve in supporting Ukraine and upholding international law.
A Delicate Agreement: Taiwan and China Reach a Settlement (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
July 30, 2024
(source: bbc.com – by Kelly Ng)
Navigating a Tense Situation
Following a tense standoff, Taiwan and China have reached an agreement regarding the deaths of two Chinese fishermen during a sea chase by Taiwan’s coastguard. This agreement, forged after months of negotiations, aims to ease tensions in the sensitive Taiwan Strait.
Compensation and Repatriation
The settlement includes compensation for the families of the deceased fishermen and the repatriation of their bodies to China. Taiwan’s coastguard has declined to share specific details of the agreement.
A Troubled History (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
The incident in February sparked a wave of anger and resentment in China. Beijing condemned the incident as “malicious,” claiming the fishermen were merely “maintaining operational order in sea areas and safeguarding fishermen’s lives and property.” In response, China initiated regular patrols around Taiwan’s Kinmen archipelago.
A Shift in Dynamics
The incident highlighted a shift in the longstanding dynamic between Taiwan and China concerning fishing rights. Historically, both sides were more lenient about each other’s fishing fleets, particularly around Taiwan’s off-shore islands. However, in recent years, Taiwan has taken a stricter approach to enforcing its territorial waters.
A Complex Situation
Taiwan attributes this shift to a significant increase in poaching by fishermen from China’s coastal Fujian province. Kinmen residents have also reported a growing presence of Chinese dredging vessels in the area. This complex situation has intensified the political tensions between Taiwan and China.
Moving Forward (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
Following the agreement, Taiwan’s coastguard director Chang Chung-lung expressed his condolences to the victims’ families. He also acknowledged that evidence was not recorded during the incident. Both sides have committed to swiftly implementing the terms of the agreement.
Seeking Resolution
The Mainland Affairs Council of Taiwan has stressed that private donors will pay the compensation and that the investigation into the incident will remain unaffected. China has expressed its hope that the agreement will offer peace of mind to the victims’ families.
Rising Recognition: The MSC Ecolabel Gains Momentum (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
July 31, 2024
(source: thefishingdaily.com – by Oliver McBride)
A Growing Mark of Sustainability
The blue Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) ecolabel is gaining significant traction among UK seafood consumers. Over half of those who have purchased seafood in the past two months recognize the label, a notable increase from previous years. This upward trend reflects a growing awareness of sustainable seafood practices.
Understanding the Label’s Significance
Not only is the blue ecolabel becoming more visible, but consumers are also developing a better understanding of its importance. More than one-third of UK consumers associate the label with sustainability and certification. This heightened awareness can be attributed to MSC’s public awareness campaigns, which emphasize sustainable fishing practices and highlight certified fisheries.
Building Consumer Trust (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
The MSC survey, encompassing over 27,000 participants across 23 countries, demonstrates a clear trend: consumers are seeking reassurance about the sustainability of their seafood choices. The MSC ecolabel provides this reassurance, with over half of UK seafood consumers stating they are more likely to purchase products bearing the label.
Prioritizing Ocean Health
Consumers are also actively demanding action to protect the oceans. The survey reveals that UK consumers prioritize safeguarding fish populations and protecting ocean wildlife. They also want the MSC to raise awareness about overfishing and provide clear explanations about sustainable seafood practices.
Addressing Ocean Concerns (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
Anxiety about the state of the world’s oceans is rising, with a vast majority of consumers expressing concern. The survey highlights a growing fear that some popular seafood species may disappear within the next two decades. These concerns are particularly pronounced among younger generations.
Promoting Sustainable Consumption
The MSC, recognizing these anxieties, is launching its fifth edition of Sustainable Seafood September. This campaign aims to encourage increased consumption of sustainable seafood while highlighting the health and environmental benefits.
A Commitment to Sustainability
The MSC, through its global, science-based fisheries standard, is driving positive change in the fishing industry. Certified fisheries are required to manage fish stocks sustainably and minimize their impact on the marine environment. In the last three years alone, over 400 fishing practice improvements have been implemented by MSC-certified fisheries.
Fishy Filaments: Transforming Wasted Gillnets into Industrial Value (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
August 1, 2024
(source: thefishingdaily.com – by Oliver McBride)
A Sustainable Solution for End-of-Life Fishing Nets
Ian Falconer, the founder of Fishy Filaments, joins the Fishing Daily Tech Podcast to discuss the company’s innovative approach to recycling wasted gillnets. Fishy Filaments has developed technology to transform end-of-life fishing nets into valuable industrial materials, revolutionizing the way these nets are repurposed.
From Mining to Marine Recycling
Ian’s background in mining and mineral processing led him to explore large-scale processing systems. Initially, he focused on producing metal powders for 3D printing. However, due to economic constraints, he pivoted to the recycling of fishing nets, recognizing a need for efficient plastic recycling in Cornwall. This shift was also driven by the region’s robust fishing industry and the growing regulatory pressure to manage end-of-life nets responsibly.
A Compact Recycling System (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
Fishy Filaments has developed a compact recycling system housed within a 40-foot container that processes monofilament fishing nets on a harbor scale. This system eliminates the need to transport nets globally for recycling, enabling immediate processing upon retrieval. Ian emphasizes that traditional recycling equipment requires large volumes, leading to geographic waste movement. In contrast, Fishy Filaments’ system is designed for energy efficiency, using only water and power to produce clean recyclate.
A Wide Range of Applications
The recycled nylon from fishing nets can be used across various industries, including fashion, automotive, and electronics. Nylon 6, the polymer used in most UK and EU fishing nets, has a wide range of applications, from clothing and eyewear to automotive parts and electronics housings. By providing recycled nylon, Fishy Filaments significantly reduces the carbon footprint of these industries.
Expanding the Reach and Impact
Currently serving the local fleet in Newlyn, Fishy Filaments plans to expand its operations by deploying containerized recycling units to other regions, enabling local processing and reducing transportation. The company is committed to creating a sustainable and localized recycling model that benefits the original owners of the nets and supports the broader fishing community.
Investment and Future Plans (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
Fishy Filaments has secured over £600,000 in private investment and continues to pursue crowdfunding efforts. The company is actively seeking venture capital and industrial partnerships to expand its network of recycling units globally. Ian encourages individuals and large industrial groups to invest in this promising solution to global plastic pollution.
Global Recognition and Policy Engagement
Fishy Filaments’ innovative approach has garnered international attention, with inquiries from Portugal, Brazil, and the U.S. Ian has presented the technology to the United Nations, highlighting the company’s potential to contribute to international environmental goals.
A Promising Future
The podcast concludes with Oliver McBride expressing his interest in visiting Fishy Filaments’ Newlyn facility to witness the recycling process firsthand. Ian assures listeners that the company has many more projects in the pipeline, promising exciting developments in sustainable waste management.
Beyond Numbers: The Vital Role of Sharks in Ocean Health (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
August 2, 2024
(source: thefishingdaily.com – from Flinders University)
The Power of Big Sharks
A new study, published in Science, highlights the critical role of large sharks in maintaining healthy ocean ecosystems. While protecting shark populations is crucial, the research emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the ecological roles that these apex predators play. The largest sharks of many of the biggest species, such as tiger sharks and great whites, are often the most affected by fishing, yet their impact on ocean health is profound.
The Importance of Size
These large sharks help maintain balance within the ocean by regulating prey populations through their eating habits. Their sheer size serves as a deterrent to prey species that could otherwise overconsume seagrass and other plant life essential for a healthy ocean. The study underscores the need to consider size as a key factor in conservation decisions.
Diverse Contributions Under Threat (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
Sharks play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy balance in ocean ecosystems. Their contributions range from nutrient cycling and habitat maintenance to serving as food sources for other species. However, these vital roles are threatened by overfishing, climate change, habitat loss, energy mining, shipping activities, and other human-induced factors.
The Consequences of Declining Shark Populations
The study highlights the alarming decline in shark populations. Oceanic shark populations have plummeted by 71 percent in the past 50 years, while the top five reef shark species have been depleted by 63 percent. As their numbers dwindle, so too do their contributions to ocean health.
Protecting Sharks for a Healthy Future
The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive conservation strategies that prioritize both population recovery and the restoration of sharks’ functional roles in the ocean. This requires a multifaceted approach that includes spatial measures like Marine Protected Areas and fisheries management measures such as catch/size limits and gear limitations.
A Call for Action
The study serves as a reminder that healthy shark populations are vital for healthy oceans. It urges marine conservationists, philanthropists, policymakers, and the public to recognize the importance of sharks as keystone species that play a significant role in maintaining the delicate balance of marine environments.
A Two-Ton Catch: Illegal Fishing Continues Along Moroccan Coast (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
August 3, 2024
(source: moroccoworldnews.com – by Jasper Hamann)
A Major Seizure
Moroccan gendarmerie intercepted a truck carrying over two tonnes of illegally fished seafood north of Dakhla. The driver was unable to produce documentation for the cargo, raising concerns about the prevalence of illegal fishing activities along Morocco’s southern coast.
A Black Market Destination
The seized cargo was destined for the black market, bypassing standard quality control procedures enforced by Morocco’s Food Safety Department. The diverse nature of the seafood suggests that the cargo originated from illegal fishing practices in the southern region.
A Persistent Problem (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
The seizure has been described as a “new fish smuggling scandal,” highlighting the persistent challenge of illegal fishing along Morocco’s southern coast. The illicit trade thrives on a combination of smuggling and corruption within the fishing industry.
Smugglers and Port Workers: A Complex Network
Smugglers engage in elaborate schemes to conceal their illegal activities. They often falsify fish identification documents, falsely claiming the catch came from a fishing boat that is not currently operating. Port workers, motivated by “rapid enrichment,” also play a role in the illegal trade, using their illicit profits to purchase real estate and luxury cars.
Facing the Consequences
Authorities at the Department of Maritime Fisheries are now determining the fate of the seized cargo. If the seafood meets quality standards, it will be sold. However, if the quality is deemed subpar, it will be incinerated.
A Controversial Extension: Gujarat Extends Fishing Ban, Sparking Outrage (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
August 4, 2024
(source: republicworld.com – by Press Trust Of India)
Government’s Rationale: A Balanced Approach?
The Gujarat government, in a decision that has ignited controversy, has extended the fishing ban in the Arabian Sea by a fortnight until August 15. This move, according to a senior fisheries department official, was made in close consultation with the central government. The government took into account a representation from the fishermen’s association seeking more time for fish breeding. Moreover, the decision was influenced by scientific data and weather conditions. The official also anticipates that other states along the western coast will adopt this revised fishing ban period.
Congress Condemns: “Unfair and Reckless” Decision
The Congress, however, vehemently opposes the extension, labeling it “unfair and reckless.” State Congress president Shaktisinh Gohil argues that the sudden amendment to the Fisheries Act 2003, made without any consultation with fishermen, will lead to substantial financial losses for them.
Fishermen Caught in the Crossfire: Financial Strain and Disruption (Fishing News 20240729-20240804)
Gohil further emphasizes the hardship faced by fishermen who had made preparations to resume fishing from August 1. He points out that they had stocked up on supplies and traveled long distances to reach fishing grounds, only to be forced to wait another two weeks. Gohil criticizes the Gujarat government for failing to provide any financial assistance to fishermen during the ban period, unlike other states.
A Shift in Ban Dates: A Historical Perspective
Gujarat’s decision to extend the ban period reflects a shift in policy. Previously, the ban lasted from June 10 to August 15. In 2021, the government shortened it to June 1 to July 31. The recent extension reverts back to a longer ban period, aligning with the central government’s recommendation. The director of fisheries, Narander Kumar Meena, believes that this change will be adopted by other western states, leading to a common ban period in the coming years.
A Glimpse into Gujarat’s Fisheries Industry
The fishing ban impacts a significant segment of the Gujarat economy. In 2020-21, over 36,980 fishing boats were registered with the state government, generating revenue of Rs 7,659 crore from marine fishing in 2021-22. While the extended ban aims to promote sustainable fishing practices, its immediate impact on the livelihoods of fishermen remains a major concern.