News Digest n.4 / 2026
European Ocean Board convenes for first meeting to shape future of EU ocean policy
The European Commission has launched the European Ocean Board, a high-level expert group to support the European Ocean Pact, aimed at protecting the ocean, promoting the blue economy, and aiding coastal communities. The Board will advise on objectives like ocean health, blue economy competitiveness, and maritime security, and will foster dialogue for coherent EU policies. This initiative complements existing platforms and is a key deliverable of the European Ocean Pact, adopted in June 2025.
FEAP strengthens NextGen programme to enhance aquaculture sector influence in EU policymaking
The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP) hosted the second NextGen “Deep Dive into EU Institutions” program in Brussels, aimed at enhancing young professionals' understanding of European decision-making processes. The 2026 edition involved nine participants over two days, featuring technical sessions, institutional visits, and discussions with key stakeholders such as the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE). Contributions from experts provided a comprehensive overview of the European policy landscape.
No fishmeal, no problem? Trout study highlights new trade-offs
A study published in Animals demonstrates that fishmeal- and fish oil-free diets can support the growth of rainbow trout, without significant effects on productive performance, observed over a 97-day trial. The findings suggest that while replacing fishmeal is feasible, it presents new challenges regarding performance, environmental impact, and consumer perception in aquaculture sustainability.
A deep dive across the European Ocean Days 2026
From 2 to 6 March, the European Ocean Days convened diverse stakeholders in Brussels, focusing on the critical challenges and advancements in EU fisheries and maritime policy. The event emphasized the European Ocean Pact, which unifies EU ocean-related policies, and featured discussions on ocean health, competitiveness, and ‘Vision 2040 for fisheries and aquaculture’. Engaging performances highlighted the arts' role in advocacy, while the BlueInvest Day reported substantial investments in blue economies.
