Dear readers, (28/05/2024)

EU commits to ocean action and presents European Ocean Pact at the third UN Ocean Conference (10/06/2025)

At the third UN Ocean Conference in Nice, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is presenting the European Ocean Pact, a landmark initiative aimed at safeguarding the long-term health of the world’s ocean.

Commission adopts European Ocean Pact for a healthy ocean, a competitive blue economy and thriving coastal communities (05/06/2025)

The European Commission has adopted a European Ocean Pact, a comprehensive strategy to better protect the ocean, promote a thriving blue economy and support the well-being of people living in coastal areas.

EU leads global efforts to protect high seas biodiversity with landmark Treaty ratification (02/06/2025)

The EU has ratified the landmark Treaty of the High Seas to protect the ocean, tackle environmental degradation, fight climate change, and prevent biodiversity loss.

EU fish populations show signs of recovery, but more efforts needed as key species struggle (06/06/2025)

The overall sustainability of the EU fisheries continues improving with more fish stocks being fished at sustainable levels. Climate change continues to affect fishing communities, reducing fish stocks they depend on for their livelihood, leading to economic uncertainty.

Commission welcomes landmark agreement to combat non-sustainable fishing practices on fish stocks of common interest by non-EU countries (03/06/2025)

The Commission welcomes the provisional political agreement reached today between the European Parliament and the Council to amend the existing measures on non-sustainable fishing practices by non-EU countries on shared fish stocks of common interest.

European Union and Côte d’Ivoire renew their sustainable fisheries partnership (10/06/2025)

The EU and Côte d’Ivoire signed today a protocol that resumes – after nearly a year – their cooperation under the fisheries partnership agreement.

Mission Ocean and Waters: Over 1,000 initiatives to protect and restore marine and freshwater ecosystems (02/06/2025)

The EU Mission Ocean and Waters celebrates an important milestone. Since its launch in 2022, the Mission Ocean Charter has reached an impressive number of over 1000 actions for the ocean. In total, these actions coming from individuals and organisations have mobilised more than €8 billion.

Commission publishes 2025 report on EU blue economy (22/05/2025)

The European Commission has published its 2025 EU Blue Economy Report. The report presents the economic performance of the EU blue economy sectors and provides estimations of their economic performance. 

Commission launches strategy to enhance water security for people, economy and environment (10/06/2025)

The Commission has adopted the European Water Resilience Strategy aiming at restoring and protecting the water cycle, securing clean and affordable water for all and creating a sustainable, resilient, smart and competitive water-economy in Europe.

New EU strategy for secure, prosperous and resilient Black Sea region (28/05/2025)

The EU is putting forward a new strategy for a stable and secure Black Sea region. This strategy aims to boost connections and growth, by linking Europe with the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and beyond.

Euronews OCEAN Season 7, Episode 5 - Wind turbines innovation (28/05/2025)

Europe needs to secure its energy future, and offshore renewables are set to play a key role. The EU member states aim to increase offshore power capacity 18-fold by 2050.  But getting there won’t be simple: the sector faces some big challenges. 

European Maritime Day 2025: Showcasing innovation driving the blue economy forward (11/06/2025)

Around 1,200 maritime stakeholders gathered last week in Cork for the 2025 edition of European Maritime Day (EMD). Organised annually by the European Commission in a different maritime city, EMD is the key forum to shape and debate the future of Europe’s sustainable blue economy. The event featured workshops, networking sessions, side events, and award ceremonies.

Algae: Small Organisms, Big Potential – A decade of EU support driving innovation (11/06/2025)

Algae may be small, but their potential is huge. From sustainable food to marine restoration and bioplastics, algae offer innovative solutions that benefit both people and planet.

Indico Capital Partners & BlueInvest: harnessing the ocean’s potential (11/06/2025)

As the climate crisis worsens, the ocean is both at risk and a source for solutions. Indico Capital Partners, a venture capital firm from Lisbon, is championing ocean-based innovation and develops it on a global scale.

KOASTAL currents: A new wave in sustainable seaweed farming (11/06/2025)

Thanks to EU support, the Swedish start-up company KOASTAL is testing an innovative business model for large scale sustainable sugar kelp cultivation on the west coast of Sweden. The idea is to create a franchise concept where small-scale players, including fishers, will be assisted with everything

Offshore wind energy (11/06/2025)

The expansion of offshore wind energy can reduce our CO2 emissions, and safeguard Europe’s competitiveness and energy supply security. Explore the map of the month to discover the locations and operational statuses of offshore wind farms scattered across European waters.

EU Arctic Forum, Indigenous Peoples’ Dialogue and Arctic Youth Dialogue (26/06/2025)

Sustainable imports of fishery products under the EU Autonomous Tariff Quota Regulation (10/04/2025)

The EU blue economy report 2025 (22/05/2025)

Factsheet - 10 years of EU funding for the algae sector (2014-2023) (11/06/2025)

Commission takes further step to protect biodiversity in the High Seas (24/04/2025)

The Commission has presented a proposal to integrate the landmark international Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction' (BBNJ) Agreement, which aims to protect the ocean, tackle environmental degradation, fight climate change, and curb biodiversity loss, into EU law.

EU pledges over €300 million in ocean conservation efforts at Our Ocean Conference in Busan (29/04/2025)

At Our Ocean Conference in Busan, in the Republic of Korea, the European Union announced €301,485,000 in EU funding to support actions in the fields of the sustainable blue economy, marine pollution, marine protected areas, digital oceans, sustainable fisheries, and ocean and climate change.

Commission streamlines reporting obligation of small pelagic unsorted catches by listing specific landing ports (15/05/2025)

The European Commission has taken a significant step forward towards simplifying fishing catch reporting for the unsorted pelagic fisheries sector. By publishing a first list of landing ports, the Commission is allowing fisheries operators in these ports to benefit from a margin of tolerance

Don’t skip the skipjack (23/04/2025)

The European Union has successfully driven the adoption of several crucial conservation measures at the recent meeting of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC). 

EU welcomes final ruling of Arbitration Tribunal on EU-UK sandeel dispute (02/05/2025)

The European Commission welcomes the final ruling by the Arbitration Tribunal, established under the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) to settle the EU-UK sandeel dispute, which agreed with the EU's interpretation of several key issues.

Water salinity cuts the risk of harmful bacteria riding on microplastics from freshwater to the sea (02/05/2025)

Issue 617: A study of bacteria on microplastics in nine European rivers shows salinity to serve as a barrier stopping serious pathogens travelling large distances on plastic debris.

Euronews OCEAN Season 7, Episode 4 - Circular blue economy (02/05/2025)

From France’s Atlantic coast to the Spanish Mediterranean, marine industries are finding new ways to turn their waste into treasure. Discarded oyster shells and abandoned fishing nets, once considered worthless, are now being repurposed into eco-friendly building materials and street furniture through innovative upcycling projects.

BlueAquaEdu: Innovating aquaculture education through gamification and distance learning (02/05/2025)

Blue Career Centre for Aquaculture Education supported by a gamification approach and distance learning platform. The BlueAquaEdu project kicked off in September 2023 as one of the blue careers project supported by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).

SeaQurrent is transforming renewable energy with support from BlueInvest (19/05/2025)

Dutch company SeaQurrent uses the steady power of tides for sustainable energy. Their TidalKite System works underwater, moving in figure eights like a flying kite, to capture energy.

Pioneering sustainable fishing gear in Puglia (19/05/2025)

Around 550,000 tonnes of fishing gear have accumulated in the European Economic Area, with 12,000 tonnes added annually. The Fishing Without Plastic (PE.S.PLA) project aimed to combat this by developing biodegradable materials for artisanal fishing gear, reducing environmental impact.

Mission Actions - EU Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters (19/05/2025)

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.

European Maritime Day 2025 (21/05/2025)

Enhancing coordination and synergies in the field of ocean observation in the EU (27/03/2025)

BlueInvest Africa 2025 (16/04/2025)

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

Commissioner Kadis in La Réunion to open the 29th Indian Ocean Tuna Commission meeting (11/04/2025)

On 13 April, Commissioner Kadis will officially open the 29th annual meeting of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), which plays a crucial role in overseeing the conservation of tuna and tuna-like species.

The European Commission is consulting the public on the sustainability of the EU tariff reduction regime for import of fisheries products (10/04/2025)

The European Commission has published a questionnaire seeking feedback from the public on the sustainability of the EU’s autonomous tariff quotas (ATQs) for import of fisheries products.

Commission launches EU-wide aquaculture campaign (24/03/2025)

On 25 March Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans Costas Kadis hosted an event to launch an EU-wide aquaculture campaign.

Young Voices for the Ocean: The first Youth Policy Dialogue with Commissioner Costas Kadis (28/03/2025)

What do young people want for the future of our ocean? That’s what we asked 15 young people from across Europe as part of the first Youth Policy Dialogue of Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis.

Commission welcomes provisional agreement to reduce microplastic pollution (09/04/2025)

The Commission welcomes the provisional agreement reached last night between the European Parliament and the Council on the Commission's proposal to regulate and prevent microplastic pollution from plastic pellets, across the value chain, including during transport, notably at sea.

Landmark agreement towards achieving net-zero emissions from global shipping by 2050 (14/04/2025)

The European Commission welcomes agreement at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), as a meaningful step towards achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from global shipping by 2050.

Euronews OCEAN Season 7, Episode 3 - Turning the tide for young offenders (26/03/2025)

Young offenders often lack opportunities to develop skills, increasing their risk of reoffending. The Turning Blue project aims to change that by providing education and training in the blue economy - jobs linked to the ocean.

Blue Bio Techpreneurs - Unlocking Transversal and Entrepreneurial Skills for the Blue Bioeconomy (04/04/2025)

Tackling the skills and labour gaps to improve people’s careers and economic competitiveness is one of the top priorities of the European Union.

Preserving heritage, boosting sustainability: Biharugra’s fishpond in Hungary (11/04/2025)

Biharugrai Halgazdaság, located in Hungary’s Southern Great Plains, has revitalised its historic fishpond system with European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) investments. As Hungary’s second-largest fishpond system operator, the company combines ecological sustainability with economic growth.

Inobiostar: pioneering sustainable solutions for oil spills with BlueInvest support (11/04/2025)

Oil spills pose a severe threat to marine ecosystems and industries that depend on clean water. Inobiostar, a Lithuanian spin-off from Klaipeda University, is addressing this challenge through innovative biotechnological solutions.

Shellfish farms (08/04/2025)

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.

Common fisheries policy – evaluation (27/01/2025)

Assessment study for data and metadata availability and adequacy for MSFD Article 19(3) obligations (18/03/2025)

Mapping of marine protected areas and their associated fishing activities (MAPAFISH) (14/03/2025)

Mapping of marine protected areas and their associated fishing activities (MAPAFISH) - Annex (14/03/2025)

European Ocean Days 2025: collective action for Europe’s blue future (12/03/2025)

From 3 to 7 March , Brussels became the hub of ocean action as the European Ocean Days brought together researchers, policymakers, youth and industry leaders to discuss how to preserve Europe’s marine ecosystems and boost its blue economy.

Commissioner Kadis kicks off European Ocean Pact with High-Level Fisheries and Ocean Dialogue (25/02/2025)

Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadis, has launched the first Fisheries and Ocean Dialogue, a crucial step in shaping the European Ocean Pact. The high-level roundtable gathering brought together a diverse array of policymakers, stakeholders, and experts to discuss the future of the EU's ocean governance.

EU takes steps to harmonise the collection of catch data from recreational fisheries (12/02/2025)

The European Union establishes for the first time, a harmonised system to collect catch data from recreational fisheries in marine coastal areas across the EU.

Eurobarometer survey shows new trends in fishery and aquaculture products consumption (25/02/2025)

58% of Europeans eat fish at home at least once a month, according to the latest Eurobarometer survey on EU consumer habits regarding fishery and aquaculture products.

Commission and the High Representative present strong actions to enhance security of submarine cables (25/02/2025)

Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen has presented the Joint Communication of the Commission and the HRVP to strengthen the security and resilience of submarine cables.

The European Union working towards litter-free coastal communities (25/02/2025)

In the last 15 years several EU funding programmes have addressed marine litter under different perspectives. The outcome is a wide range of EU research projects and associated results and a newly released Free Litter Toolkit.

Taking stock of EU laws on the protection of seas and quality of bathing waters (06/03/2025)

The Bathing Water Directive and Marine Strategy Framework Directive have been assessed to measure their current achievements and identify any potential for simplification.

Euronews OCEAN Season 7, Episode 2 – Diving into plastic (26/02/2025)

Why is plastic pollution so dangerous for our seas? And what’s the most unexpected find in Venice’s canals?

From seaweed harvesters to sea urchin rescuers: the story of Porto-Muiños (03/03/2025)

Porto-Muiños, a family-owned aquaculture producer in Galicia with 25 years of experience in the industry, used EU support to develop a new aquaculture facility, where they use their business’ staple algae products to cultivate sea urchin for restocking local waters.

A floating piece of Cypriot history: the Lambousa museum (03/03/2025)

Lambousa is a vessel like no other: it provides a glimpse into the rich nautical past of Cyprus. Once an old wooden fishing trawler, it has been restored and transformed into a floating museum thanks to EU funding.

RanMarine: innovative ocean-cleaning – supported by BlueInvest (13/03/2025)

RanMarine, a Dutch startup, offers innovative solutions to fight water pollution. It has developed autonomous water-cleaning devices that not only effectively remove plastic waste but also address other major environmental challenges such as oil pollution and harmful algae blooms.

Seabed litter (27/02/2025)

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.

Mapping of MPAs and their associated fishing activities in the Mediterranean and Black Seas (25/02/2025)

Commission opens public consultation on the common fisheries policy regulation (27/01/2025)

The European Commission has opened a public consultation to gather evidence, insights, concerns, ideas, and feedback on the effectiveness of the common fisheries policy (CFP) regulation from a range of stakeholders, including individuals, the fisheries and maritime sectors, scientists,

Shaping the European Oceans Pact: Commission launches a call for evidence (20/01/2025)

The European Commission has launched a call for evidence to shape the European Oceans Pact, a political initiative that aims to promote sustainable ocean management and ensure the health, resilience, and productivity of the oceans and thus the prosperity of the EU’s coastal communities.

Member States introduce more measures to protect coastal and marine environments (04/02/2025)

The rules are essential to ensure that water-based ecosystems are defended against the negative impacts of human activity.

Meet the 10 new coordinators supporting the Energy Transition Partnership for EU fisheries and aquaculture (21/01/2025)

The Energy Transition Partnership for EU Fisheries and Aquaculture is pleased to announce the appointment of 10 support group coordinators to help drive progress towards a more sustainable and low-carbon fishing and aquaculture sector. 

European Maritime Transport Environmental Report 2025 highlights progress made in sustainable maritime transport but challenges still persist (04/02/2025)

The second edition of the European Maritime Transport Environmental Report has been released, providing a comprehensive overview of the environmental impact of Europe's maritime sector within the EU, as well as an assessment of practices to make it more sustainable.

Marine litter on the EU coastline down by almost one-third (04/02/2025)

The newly-published EU Coastline Macro Litter Trend report found that the amount of marine macro litter (items bigger than 2.5 cm) in the EU coastline has dropped by 29 % between the baseline period (2015-2016) and the assessment period (2020-2021).

EU publishes annual statistics of catches and days at sea for the first time (31/01/2025)

For the first time, the EU publishes statistics of total allowable catches (TACs) and fishing days at sea or fishing effort. TACs and fishing days are the two main management measures the EU uses under the common fisheries policy to achieve sustainable fisheries.

An EU Compass to regain competitiveness and secure sustainable prosperity (30/01/2025)

The EU Competitiveness Compass is out! Key highlights for our sectors: Ports as hubs for clean energy & efficiency, the Ocean Pact to boost blue innovation & fishing, Circular Economy Act for better recycling & materials.

Euronews OCEAN Season 7, Episode 1 – Safety nets: Can smarter fishing gear protect marine life and keep fishers afloat? (30/01/2025)

In the Bay of Biscay, thousands of dolphins die every year, trapped in fishing nets. The problem is so severe that French authorities have to close fisheries for an entire month for the second winter in a row.

Dealing with the invasive round goby species in the Baltic Sea region: if you can’t beat them, eat them (05/02/2025)

Discover how an invasive species of fish can become delicious food in the Baltic Sea region.

A sound solution to prevent accidental dolphin catches in the Mediterranean (30/01/2025)

Dolphins are highly intelligent and playful creatures but can also be troublemakers when netted fish is in their reach. Fishers in Terracina, Italy, have frequent run-ins with dolphins which interfere with their catch, resulting in accidental captures, harm to the dolphins, and damaged nets.

Agriloops: Sustainable shrimp and vegetables thanks to BlueInvest (31/01/2025)

Shrimps are in great demand in kitchens worldwide, but their production often contributes to the destruction of delicate ecosystems such as mangrove forests. With the help of BlueInvest, the French start-up Agriloops has risen to the challenge by proposing pioneering innovative and sustainable solutions that redefine shrimp production and vegetable farming thanks to cutting-edge saltwater aquaponics technology.

DecarbonyT - Decarbonising the fishing fleet in the Mediterranean and Black Sea (29/01/2025)

The EU fisheries sector is still highly dependent on fossil fuels. To reach carbon neutrality in the EU by 2050, it is important to find solutions for fishing fleets, to reduce such dependency and move to renewable and low-carbon energy sources as quickly as possible.

Fisheries Local Action Groups (LAGs) (24/01/2025)

This month's map shows Fisheries Local Action Groups (LAGs) across Europe, backed by the European Maritime, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF). EMFAF focuses on community-led local development by supporting local partnerships involving fisheries representatives and stakeholders in the blue economy. Over 300 LAGs in Europe receive EMFAF support.

European Ocean Days 2025 (03/03/2025)

The European Oceans Pact (20/01/2025)

Maritime regional cooperation fostering Smart Specialisation and Innovation in the Sustainable Blue Economy (Topic 1) (26/09/2024)

Demonstrating feasibility and environmental benefits of regenerative ocean farming and boosting algae innovation (Topic 2) (26/09/2024)

Improving scientific knowledge to strengthen the science-basis of management decisions under the CFP (14/11/2024)

Development of a Digital Platform for Ocean Observation (20/01/2025)

Commission presents ‘Fishers of the Future’, a study that explores different scenarios for the EU fishing sector towards 2050 (07/01/2025)

In 2024, Tetra Tech and partners, a consortium contracted by the European Commission, engaged in a consultation process with EU fishers, their representatives from EU advisory councils, and social partners. The goal was to explore potential future scenarios for the fishing sector by 2050.

Register for the European Ocean Days in March 2025! (13/01/2025)

The Commission will host a week-long event to address the pressing issues facing the world's ocean. From 3 to 7 March 2025, the European Ocean Days will bring together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from various fields to discuss sustainable blue economy, fisheries science, and innovative solutions to ocean-related challenges.

European Union and Greenland renew their sustainable fisheries partnership (12/12/2024)

Today marks a milestone in the enduring partnership between the European Union and Greenland as they officially signed the renewed protocol implementing the sustainable fisheries partnership agreement (SFPA).

New selective gears in the Baltic to help rebuild cod stocks (16/12/2024)

The EU adopted legislation to make the flatfish fisheries in the Baltic Sea more selective by reducing incidental catches of cod, a heavily depleted stock, with the use of more selective gears.

EU Fish Market report 2024 reveals trends and insights (12/12/2024)

The Commission has released the EU Fish Market report 2024, which focuses on the fishery and aquaculture market’s performance in 2022-2023. 

The Commission improves shark trade monitoring, as part of the follow-up on European Citizens' Initiative (16/12/2024)

The European Commission is actively following up to the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) 'Stop finning – Stop the trade,' which asked the Commission for action to end international trade of loose shark fins.

Commission releases recommendations and good practices for sustainable aquaculture (17/12/2024)

The European Commission has published three new staff working documents to promote sustainable aquaculture in the European Union. These documents focus on three crucial topics: access to space and water for freshwater and land-based aquaculture, climate-change adaptation, and energy transition.

Euronews OCEAN Season 6, Episode 12 – Hooked on salmon: EU-backed efforts to protect Sweden's threatened wild species (18/12/2024)

In the 1980s, Sweden's wild salmon population was on the brink of extinction. Today, it's a remarkable success story both for the nature and the local economy, showcasing the power of environmental restoration and sustainable management.

Can you grow seaweed on land? (19/12/2024)

Yes you can! Pure Algae, a small innovative Danish business, has developed a sustainable land-based algae and seaweed cultivation system. Even better, this system can be installed alongside land-based aquaculture activities, using the nutrients produced to grow algae.

Bringing innovation in Latvian aquaculture (13/01/2025)

A new aquaculture hub is revolutionising Latvia's aquaculture sector by promoting innovation and sustainable practices. Supported by EU funding, the TOME Aquaculture Centre provides expert training, skill development, and advisory services to entrepreneurs, encouraging knowledge transfer and cross-sectoral collaboration.

Navigating the choppy seas of maritime spatial planning (13/01/2025)

The Belgian fishing industry faces numerous challenges, including regulatory changes, limited resources, and intense competition. GeoVis offers a solution, integrating scientific, industry, and regulatory data into a single, streamlined online platform for Belgian fishing areas.

Rivers and lakes (06/01/2025)

Healthy rivers are important for salmon. Salmon begin their lives in rivers before going to sea to grow and mature, then returning to their native river to spawn. They are affected by changes in water quality, habitat, climate, and barriers during migration. Protecting and restoring habitats is essential for salmon. Explore the map of the month to view the main European rivers and lakes.

Fishers of the Future: Charting a Course for 2050 (14/01/2025)

Scientific and technical knowledge of the EU-fisheries, exploited stocks and sensitive marine habitats in the high seas and third countries waters not subject to SFPA and/or RFMOs jurisdiction (07/01/2025)

Scientific and technical knowledge of the EU-fisheries, exploited stocks and sensitive marine habitats in the high seas and third countries waters not subject to SFPA and/or RFMOs jurisdiction - Annexes (07/01/2025)

Fisheries ministers agree on fishing opportunities for 2025 for the Atlantic and North Sea, and the Mediterranean and Black Sea (11/12/2024)

EU fisheries ministers have agreed fishing opportunities for 2025 for the Atlantic and North Sea, Mediterranean and Black Sea.

Twelve sustainability measures for fishers to add fishing days under the compensation mechanism (11/12/2024)

In a step towards sustainable fisheries management, EU fisheries ministers have reached an agreement on fishing opportunities for 2025 in the Mediterranean and Black Sea.

EU and Norway reach an agreement on fishing opportunities for 2025 (09/12/2024)

On 5 December, the EU and Norway concluded negotiations on the management of shared stocks in the Skagerrak and Kattegat, quota exchanges, and reciprocal access to waters.

The EU and UK agree on fishing opportunities for 2025 worth €1.4 billion for EU fishers (09/12/2024)

On 6 December, the EU and the United Kingdom reached an agreement on fishing opportunities for 2025 for more than 88 total allowable catches (TACs) in the North-East Atlantic. The agreement will contribute to the sustainable management of fish stocks jointly managed by the EU and the UK,

The EU, Norway and the UK agree on fishing opportunities in the North Sea for 2025 (05/12/2024)

On Friday 29 November, the EU concluded an agreement with Norway and the UK securing sustainable management of North Sea stocks. The agreement will also secure valuable fishing opportunities and provide predictability for the EU fleets in 2025.

EU fishing fleet sees improved profitability but structural challenges remain (18/11/2024)

The Commission has released the 2024 Annual Economic Report on the European Union fishing fleet, showing a substantial improvement in the fleet's economic performance, with gross profits increasing from both 2022 and 2023 to a projected €1,673 million in 2024.

Increased protection granted to five Natura 2000 sites in the Baltic Sea (02/12/2024)

The EU has adopted a set of conservation measures to strengthen the environmental protection of 5 Natura 2000 sites in the German Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Baltic Sea.

North-East Atlantic fisheries face significant challenges in conservation and control, as unprecedented disagreements emerge (21/11/2024)

The 43rd annual meeting of the North-East Atlantic Fisheries Commission (NEAFC) - which includes the European Union, representatives from Denmark in respect of the Faroe Islands and Greenland, Iceland, Norway, the United Kingdom and the Russian Federation - concluded last Friday, 15 November.

Landmark agreement for sustainable management of Atlantic tropical tunas (20/11/2024)

At the annual meeting of the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) meeting in Cyprus, the EU paved the way to an agreement for the sustainable management of tropical tunas.

EU regrets lack of conclusion on global plastics agreement (03/12/2024)

After two years of negotiations, UN member states failed to reach an agreement.

#EUBeachCleanup 2024: Working together against marine litter (02/12/2024)

Wrapping up the 2024 #EUBeachCleanup campaign, 367 events across the world collected tonnes of litter to raise awareness about marine pollution and its impact on the ocean. 

Euronews OCEAN Season 6, Episode 11 - Underwater WiFi, aquaponic farms: How European startups woo investors (27/11/2024)

Europe leads in ocean technology innovation, but faces a funding gap compared to the United States and China. The EU’s BlueInvest initiative aims to bridge this gap by connecting innovative startups with investors. Targeted support can help Europe’s blue economy thrive in the global market,

Back from the brink: How scientists are saving the Baltic sturgeon (11/12/2024)

The Baltic sturgeon has been vanishing at a startling rate in recent decades, at one point becoming essentially extinct. German scientists are leading efforts to reintroduce Baltic sturgeon to their native waterways and to protect existing populations through the EU-funded ‘Stör’ project.

From invasive to innovative: the delicious sea snails from the Black Sea (12/12/2024)

Discovering the value of invasive Black Sea sea snails as a culinary delicacy, a family-run business from Varna in Bulgaria, has developed a new market for the molluscs. With EU support, Sever Export has grown rapidly, now operating a fleet of four vessels and an onshore plant for processing sea

A different approach to aquaculture: SEAWATER Cubes, winner of the BlueInvest Award 2024 (09/12/2024)

SEAWATER Cubes, a German startup founded in 2018, aims to transform seafood production with its modular decentralised aquaculture system. This alternative approach to conventional farming methods provides more sustainable seafood, supports global food security, and offers an innovative source of income for farmers.

BlueInvest Platform: Accelerating the European blue economy (05/12/2024)

The European Union's BlueInvest platform is a pioneering initiative aimed at accelerating innovation and investment opportunities in the sustainable blue economy.

Revolutionising our fight against pollution: two new EU projects against World Wars’ underwater unexploded ammunitions (15/11/2024)

After the World Wars, hundreds of thousands of unexploded ammunitions have been disposed of in our European seas.

Global sea surface temperature (27/11/2024)

Climate change is rapidly affecting marine ecosystems. Fisheries are suffering the impact of rapid warming, marine heat waves and extreme events. Changes in water temperature are having an impact on fish distribution. Explore the map of the month to see how sea surface temperature has evolved since the early 1990s.

Commission and Norway agree on EU quota of Svalbard cod for 2025 and beyond (11/11/2024)

The Commission and Norway have reached an agreement on a number of outstanding issues in the area of fisheries, including a quota of Svalbard cod to the EU at the level of 2,8274% of the total allowable catch (TAC) for the next and the following years.

EU and neighbourhood countries agree 1st shared EU-Albania fisheries restricted area and other measures to protect Mediterranean and Black Sea fisheries and biodiversity (11/11/2024)

During the 47th annual meeting of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), the EU and neighbourhood countries agreed on important measures in favour of sustainability of the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.

Commission proposes fishing opportunities for 2025 in the Atlantic, Kattegat and Skagerrak (31/10/2024)

Today, the Commission published its proposal to set catch limits, or total allowable catches (TACs), for ten fish stocks in the EU waters in the Atlantic Ocean, Kattegat, and Skagerrak for 2025.

North-East Atlantic coastal states reach agreement on mackerel, blue whiting and Atlanto-Scandian herring TACs for 2025 (25/10/2024)

The delegations of the European Union, the Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and the United Kingdom (coastal states) reached an agreement on management measures, for mackerel, Atlanto-Scandian herring and blue whiting in the North-East Atlantic for 2025.

Agreement reached on 2025 fishing opportunities for the Baltic Sea (23/10/2024)

The Council of the European Union reached a political agreement on the fishing opportunities in the Baltic Sea for 2025, following the Commission proposal made in August this year.

EU requests establishment of arbitration tribunal over the UK’s prohibition of fishing of sandeel (25/10/2024)

The EU decided to request the establishment of an independent arbitration tribunal under the dispute settlement mechanism of the EU–UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) concerning the United Kingdom’s decision to prohibit the fishing of sandeel.

EU boosts innovation for Arctic sustainable development – highlights from the Arctic Circle Assembly 2024 (24/10/2024)

Reykjavik, 18 October 2024 – The EU plays a critical role supporting innovation to drive sustainable economic development in the Arctic. This was the focus of a panel session organised by the EU and the Arctic Economic Council at the 2024 Arctic Circle Assembly.

CISE at the centre of discussion in Brussels (28/10/2024)

On 17 October 2024, the EU’s maritime community met in Brussels to discuss the present challenges in maritime security domain and the role of CISE in bringing maritime authorities together for a stronger and more effective response to them.

Commission supports maritime spatial planning globally (25/10/2024)

The proper planning of ocean space and use is a precondition of good ocean governance. It is indispensable if we want to sustainably grow our blue economy and preserve - or even restore - the marine ecosystem.

EU Maritime Spatial Planning Week 2024: a decade of activities and support to cross-border cooperation (24/10/2024)

The EU Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) Week marked a decade of EU support to cross-border cooperation on maritime spatial planning. The European Maritime Spatial Planning Week brought the MSP community together in Marseille (France) to reflect on the achievements made across European seas, discuss current policies, and plan for the next steps to tackle new challenges for maritime spatial planning in the EU.

Bulgaria and Romania endorse the EU Mission Ocean and Waters Charter (16/10/2024)

Two additional countries – Bulgaria and Romania – as well as some of their key regional and local stakeholders endorsed the Charter of the EU Mission 'Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030', committing to accelerate the restoration of the Danube River and Black Sea region.

Africa-Europe Ocean Strategic Group drives the partnership between two continents (14/10/2024)

On 10 October 2024 the Africa-Europe Ocean Strategic Group presented its report on how to help the two continents work together on ocean issues. 

Apply for the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries by 31 December 2024 (04/11/2024)

The Commission has launched a call for applications for the selection of members of the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF).

Euronews OCEAN Season 6, Episode 10 – Fish and microchips: how AI can help Europe's fishers and protect the seas (04/11/2024)

New digital tools in fishery control can help ensure compliance with fishing rules and catch limits while making fishers' jobs easier and safer.

Slovenian fish farms get greener (07/11/2024)

A plan to make a Slovenian trout farm self-sufficient in renewable energy has become a model of water use, waste management, biodiversity, and social engagement.

Revolutionising Precision Fishing Through Digital Transformation (07/11/2024)

Fishing is changing, and projects like VISTools are leading the way. This innovation harnesses the power of technology to optimise fishing operations by automating data collection and analysis of data on fishing vessels.

Remote Electronic Monitoring on bluefin tuna processing vessels (31/10/2024)

Since 2022,the European Union has been funding a Pilot Project for the use of remote electronic monitoring systems on processing vessels for bluefin tuna.

Protecting the Artic sea ice with Arctic Reflections and BlueInvest (25/10/2024)

Arctic Reflections is on a mission to protect Arctic Sea ice, which functions as a natural heat shield and plays a significant role in cooling the planet. Led by an innovative team, this project from the Netherlands combines smart technology, indigenous collaboration, and a deep commitment to

Trade of fisheries and aquaculture products (25/10/2024)

On average, Europeans consume 24 kg (live weight) of fish or seafood per year. The supply of these products to the European Union (EU) market is ensured by the EU’s own production and by imports. The map shows the total volume (intra-EU and extra-EU) of imports and exports of fisheries and aquaculture products by country.

Commission proposes a first set of fishing opportunities for 2025 in the Mediterranean and Black Seas (16/09/2024)

The Commission has adopted its proposal for fishing opportunities for 2025 for the Mediterranean and the Black Seas. The proposal promotes the sustainable management of fish stocks in the Mediterranean and the Black Seas and delivers on the political commitments made in the MedFish4Ever and Sofia Declarations.

Commission proposes a revision of EU tools to address unsustainable fishing practices by non-EU countries on fish stocks of common interest (13/09/2024)

The Commission has proposed a revision of the EU tools designed to address unsustainable fishing practices by non-EU countries on fish stocks of common interest. This revision will make the current tools more effective and reinforce the good governance and sustainability of our ocean.

Commission takes measures to reduce incidental catches of dolphins and small cetaceans in the Bay of Biscay based on Member States recommendation (30/09/2024)

The Commission has implemented a joint recommendation agreed between France, Spain, Portugal and Belgium through a delegated act securing regional measures in the Bay of Biscay for 2025 to prevent incidental catches of dolphins and other small cetaceans caused by fishing.

NAFO Annual Meeting 2024: Key Decisions on cod and red fish stocks (01/10/2024)

The EU took a leading role in the 46th Annual Meeting of the Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) which took place in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, from 23 to 27 September 2024.

Fisheries multiannual plans in the North Sea and the Western Waters help reduce fishing pressure on stocks (30/09/2024)

The Commission has published the first report on the implementation of the multiannual plan (MAP) for the management of fisheries in the North Sea and the Western Waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

European Union and Guinea-Bissau renew their sustainable fisheries partnership (18/09/2024)

The EU and Guinea-Bissau have signed a new protocol for the implementation of the fisheries partnership agreement . This will allow EU vessels to access Guinea-Bissau’s waters for a period of 5 years, while fostering the sustainable development of the fisheries sector in Guinea-Bissau. 

Can desalination help address Europe's freshwater needs? (02/10/2024)

Seen as a drought-proof alternative to dwindling freshwater supplies, desalination removes salt from seawater and is ready for consumption, but there are significant drawbacks to the process.

Remarks by Commissioner Hoekstra at the High Ambition for the High Seas UNGA event (02/10/2024)

Euronews OCEAN Season 6, Episode 9 – Digital Twin of the Ocean: Europe’s game-changer for sustainable seas (25/09/2024)

The European Digital Twin Ocean (EU DTO) is an ambitious project aimed at creating a digital replica of the ocean environment. It combines data, models, and applications to provide a comprehensive virtual representation of marine systems.

EMODnet: catalyst of the Digital Twin of the Ocean and blue innovation (01/10/2024)

EMODnet, the European Marine Observation and Data Network, is a marine data service initiated by the European Commission in 2009. Funded by the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund with an average annual budget of EUR 7.5 million

Navigating innovation: D-ICE Engineering and BlueInvest (02/10/2024)

D-ICE Engineering, a French company, brings cutting-edge solutions to the maritime and offshore sectors. Their flagship product, OCEANiCS, is a disruptive navigation system designed to improve the efficiency and safety of marine operations.

Reconnecting land and sea: Ireland’s first seaweed processing facility (24/09/2024)

Seaweed in Ireland has a longstanding tradition and is cemented in Irish folklore but its use has been lost in recent years. Recognising the potential of seaweed, The Seaweed Company used EU funds to develop a seaweed farm and Ireland’s first dedicated seaweed processing facility.

Underwater depth (26/09/2024)

This map shows the average depth of the water in the European region. The data are provided by the European Marine Observation and Data Network (EMODnet). EMODnet supplies data for the European Digital Twin of the Ocean (EU DTO), including information on the marine environment and human activities.

CISE High Level Event (17/10/2024)

Apply to join the support group to the energy transition partnership for EU fisheries and aquaculture. Deadline: 23 September 2024 (20/08/2024)

The Commission has launched a call for expression of interest to establish a support group to the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) for EU fisheries and aquaculture. 

Assessing spillover from marine protected areas to adjacent fisheries (05/09/2024)

Commission proposes fishing opportunities for 2025 in the Baltic Sea (26/08/2024)

The Commission has adopted its proposal for the 2025 fishing opportunities for the Baltic Sea. It responds to a scientific assessment that indicates several fisheries are in a dire situation.

Commission publishes report on the implementation of the fisheries multiannual plan in the Baltic Sea (04/09/2024)

The Commission has published the second report on the implementation of the multiannual plan (MAP) for the management of fisheries in the Baltic Sea.

2024 Fisheries Science Seminar on Artificial Intelligence - registration is open (21/08/2024)

The annual Fisheries Science Seminar, organised by the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries will take place on 25 September 2024. This year's seminar will focus on the potential contribution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) towards achieving fisheries sustainability.

Keeping the Danube blue with the #EUBeachCleanup! (02/09/2024)

On 29 August 2024, as part of the Danube Delta Summer School, organised by the Danube Delta National Institute for Research and Development (INCDDD) in collaboration with the International Association for Danube Research (IAD), over 30 participants from eight countries came together for a significant beach clean-up at Sulina coastal area.

Less plastic waste means cleaner beaches (16/08/2024)

Have you noticed anything different about the caps on plastic bottles lately? That is just one of the measures to tackle plastics pollution. Plastics are an important material in our economy that are everywhere in our daily lives but can present negative environmental and health impacts when misused.

Degraded ecosystems to be restored across Europe as Nature Restoration Law enters into force (19/08/2024)

The regulation sets binding targets to restore degraded ecosystems, particularly those with the most potential to capture and store carbon and to prevent and reduce the impact of natural disasters.

Euronews OCEAN Season 6, Episode 8 – Marine heatwaves (29/08/2024)

Heatwaves are hitting not just land but also our oceans. As sea temperatures break new records, deadly marine heatwaves threaten ecosystems, fisheries, aquaculture, and tourism across Europe’s waters.

Getting Czechs to eat more fish – How EU funding helped a small company achieve its bold culinary mission (05/09/2024)

Czech entrepreneur Jan Hora loves a challenge - and took on the mission to get his fellow Czechs eating more fish. As the lowest consumers of fish in the EU, Jan knew he would have to offer something different, which inspired his variety of fish-based products tailored to appeal the Czech market.

Restoring coastal ecosystems with Reefy and BlueInvest (28/08/2024)

Dutch start-up Reefy is at the forefront of restoring underwater ecosystems, tackling the alarming decline of marine life. With support from BlueInvest, Reefy secured €500,000 to pioneer their technology: stable modular reefs that help restore the environment and act as living breakwaters for coastlines suffering the effects of climate change.

LIFE Garachico: protecting island communities from the sea (29/08/2024)

Atlantic storms can cause devastating flooding on the beautiful coastlines of Macaronesia - a problem that will only get worse with climate change. LIFE Garachico is finding affordable ways to help communities cope.

Drifting buoys track ocean temperature monthly (16/08/2024)

Marine heatwaves, which are prolonged periods of extreme ocean temperature increases, have been occurring more frequently and with greater intensity in recent years. These heatwaves have harmful effects on ecosystems, marine industries, and human activities. Scientists use drifting buoys as one method to monitor ocean temperatures. These buoys move freely in the ocean and collect temperature data automatically, which is then relayed by satellite for immediate use in forecasts. The map displays temperature measurements from drifting buoys worldwide for the previous month.

Call for evidence - Common fisheries policy – evaluation (20/06/2024)

Call for evidence - EU Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) 2021-2027 – midterm evaluation (12/06/2024)

Call for evidence - EU Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) 2014-2020 – ex-post evaluation (12/06/2024)

Public consultation - EU Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) 2021-2027 – midterm evaluation (25/06/2024)

Public consultation - EU Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) 2014-2020 – ex-post evaluation (21/06/2024)

Call for proposals - Art and the digital: Unleashing creativity for European water management (20/06/2024)

RecFishing: an electronic system for catch reporting of recreational fisheries (25/07/2024)