Sustainable fisheries
Volt's approach to sustainable fishing involves phasing out harmful fishing methods, adjusting fishing quotas based on scientific recommendations, supporting small-scale fisheries, fighting illegal fishing and promoting sustainable aquaculture.
We will protect marine ecosystems, phase out harmful fishing methods, promote sustainable aquaculture and fight illegal fishing. Our policy emphasises the importance of transparency, accountability and cooperation in fisheries management.
In the European election programme, Moonshot, Volt proposes a series of actions to address the future of commercial fishing. We envision sustainable fishing practices through the implementation of several policies outlined in the Healthy Ecosystems Act.
By phasing out harmful fishing gear that has a negative impact on ecosystems, such as coral destruction and incidental catch (bycatch). Destructive methods such as bottom trawling will be phased out, starting in marine protected areas. This policy aims to protect marine ecosystems and reduce the negative impact of fishing on biodiversity.
We must adjust fishing quotas based on scientific recommendations from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). This will ensure that fishing quotas are set at a sustainable level to prevent overfishing and protect fish stocks.
We must tackle illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU) and support strong mechanisms and deterrent penalties to address illegal fishing practices.
We must emphasise the need for effective cooperation with third countries to restore marine stocks and protect marine protected areas (MPAs). By addressing IUU fishing, Volt wants to promote sustainable fishing and protect marine ecosystems.
Conversely, Volt will support small-scale fishing, recognising how important small-scale fishing is to coastal communities' livelihoods and local economies. There must be fair incentives under the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) to support small-scale fisheries and enable them to participate effectively in the decision-making process. This approach aims to promote sustainable fishing methods and reduce the environmental impact of fishing.
Volt advocates that EU funds should only support truly sustainable aquaculture practices. In addition, policies should work to bring overall food consumption patterns to sustainable levels. By promoting sustainable aquaculture, Volt aims to reduce the environmental impact of fish farming and ensure the sustainability of seafood production.
Finally, we must strengthen legislation on aquaculture and its effluents and waste to prevent disruptive nutrient gradients and support a sustainable, circular and biodiversity-friendly form of aquaculture.
