News Digest n.4 / 2024
The European Fisheries Control Agency (EFCA) has launched an exchange programme targeting fisheries inspectors and Fisheries Monitoring Centre operators in five e-FishMed Beneficiary Countries. The programme, supported by partners France, Italy, Malta, Portugal, and Spain, aims to enhance cooperation and promote best practices in combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing.
Norway set to tax foreign aquaculture workers and businesses
Norway is set to impose a production tax on foreign-owned aquaculture businesses, including employees, in Norwegian waters. The tax, which will affect offshore farming, aims to ensure the community receives a fair share of foreign companies' value creation in Norwegian areas.
Ireland: discovering rare ‘sponge reefs’ and new corals with SeaRover
The SeaRover project, funded by the EU, aimed to protect Ireland's oceans from increased fishing activities. The project, divided into three phases, discovered new coral species, sponge reefs, rare deep-sea black corals, and a shark nursery. The project also highlighted international collaboration in marine research and provided training opportunities for young scientists.
Brussels, green light to Italy’s 600 million plan for fisheries
The European Commission has approved a 600 million euro Italian aid scheme to boost investment in the fisheries and aquaculture sector. The scheme aims to foster cooperation, promote market relations, and support contract development across various sectors. It will be open to all enterprises until Dec. 31, 2029.
Scientists use lobster tags to study how offshore aquaculture restores marine habitats
Scientists, mussel farmers, and fishermen in southwest England are conducting a research project to tag lobsters and evaluate the effects of offshore aquaculture on ocean health. The project aims to fill gaps in scientific knowledge about fish and crustaceans in the area and explore how the mussel farm might benefit nearby fisheries in the future.
Consumer needs for seafood certification revealed
A study by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has revealed consumer perceptions and behaviors regarding sustainable seafood products. The research, involving 15,000 consumers from 14 countries, found that 87% of participants considered the inclusion of fish and seafood products in their daily shopping lists as important or very important. The most important considerations were the absence of antibiotics, good water conditions, and product safety.
