Today I have written to Fisheries and Environment Ministers of 22 European Union Member States about the issue of incidental catches of dolphins and other marine animals in EU waters, especially in the Bay of Biscay and the Celtic Sea,to urge them to collaborate in finding a solution for this situation. As the European Commissioner for Environment, Oceans and Fisheries, I am fully committed to resolve this problem.

Statement by Commissioner Vella after the Agrifish Council, 19/12/2019

The EU Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters focuses on improving the health of our ocean and waterways through research, innovation, public involvement, and blue investments. Key goals include creating a carbon-neutral and circular blue economy, reducing pollution, and safeguarding ecosystems and biodiversity. Check out the map to discover Mission Actions in Europe.

The map features European shellfish farms. Shellfish, especially mussels, oysters and clams, make up more than 50% of the EU’s total aquaculture production. Aquaculture worlwide is quickly expanding, contributing to global food supply and economic growth. In the EU, it’s vital to develop skills and careers in this field among the younger generation.

Each year, millions of tonnes of litter are produced from various human activities, with much of it ending up in the ocean, causing environmental, economic, and public health issues. The map of the month displays the percentage of seabed litter in categories such as glass, textile, metal, and polymer. Click on the map's graphs for more details.

Call for Applications for Pitchers at BlueInvest Africa 2025, Togo – Deadline 30/04/25

The Commission has launched a second call for applications with a view to extending the membership of the group and achieving an appropriate balance of the interests represented by selecting organisations operating in the field of activities related to youth, fisheries and migration/integration.

The NAFO internship program is currently accepting applications for 2019.