New protections for Northeast Atlantic seabed ecosystems and fishing resources
A recent decision by the European Commission closes 87 sensitive areas in Northeast Atlantic Community waters to all infrastructure access. The move aims to safeguard seabed biodiversity and ensure the long term viability of fisheries resources in the region. The measure aligns with the broader goals of the European Green Deal and the biodiversity strategy, emphasizing nature protection and ecosystem restoration across European waters.
Officials explained that the action focuses on protecting a wide range of deep water habitats. The goal is to reduce disruption to marine life while limiting impacts on fishing activities as much as possible. The Commission cited deep water access regulations and expert opinions from scientists at the International Council for Marine Exploration ICES as foundational to the decision-making process.
The reserved areas cover a total of 16,419 square kilometers and lie between 400 and 800 meters deep. This represents about 1.16 percent of the Northeast Atlantic community waters. The closed zones are intended to shield delicate ecosystems such as cold water coral reefs, seamounts, and deep sea faults from damaging practices while allowing room for natural recovery and ongoing scientific study.
In the wake of the closures, bottom fishing activities in the affected zones, including trawling, dredging, bottom gillnets, bottom longlines, pots, and traps, will be restricted. The Commission noted that the measure was crafted after extensive consultations with Member States and stakeholders over the past two years, with particular input from the fishing sector and environmental NGOs. The aim is to balance ecological protection with existing fishing interests and regional economies.
Regional reactions and concerns
Spain has raised concerns about the closures, and Ireland has previously voted against related recommendations in the past. These responses reflect the complex balance between protecting marine ecosystems and supporting communities that rely on bottom fishing. While some countries push for broader protections, others emphasize the potential economic and operational impacts on fleets that work close to the seabed.
Since a prior measure restricting bottom trawling up to 800 meters was introduced in 2016, the new protections expand efforts to preserve fragile deep water habitats. Officials describe the closures as a step toward restoring vulnerable ecosystems that provide vital services such as biodiversity support, carbon storage, and nursery grounds for various species important to both biodiversity and fisheries industries.
Environmental groups and many researchers have long argued that bottom fishing can severely damage seafloor habitats. They point to the loss of habitat-forming species and the disruption of ecological networks that sustain fish populations. Proponents of the measure say that while fishing interests are taken into account, conservation needs must take priority to maintain healthy oceans and long term fishery yields.
The implementing law will enter into force twenty days after its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union and will apply immediately to all ships under EU Member States and those from third countries operating within Community waters. The regulation signals a firm stance in favor of marine protection and demonstrates how policy can evolve from science-driven assessments to practical, enforceable actions on the water.
Bottom fishing has long been controversial due to its potential to indiscriminately target bottom-dwelling species and stir debate about the level of harm it imposes on seabed ecosystems. Critics argue that such practices can devastate habitat structure and biodiversity, while supporters emphasize the livelihood and supply chain implications for fishing communities. The current measure attempts to reconcile these perspectives by creating a network of no-go zones that help ecosystems recover while offering clear timelines for future assessment and adjustment.
Ongoing monitoring and research are expected to inform any future modifications. National authorities and international scientists will continue to observe seabed responses, with data guiding decisions on potential expansions or relaxations of restrictions as conditions change and scientific understanding advances.
Policy makers stress that the new protections reflect a broader EU commitment to sustainable fisheries and responsible ocean stewardship. They highlight that safeguarding the seafloor and associated habitats supports resilient ecosystems capable of maintaining productivity even in the face of climate change and increasing human pressures. The measure is presented as a practical instrument to protect biodiversity and ensure the long term resilience of marine resources for communities across Europe.
Further information about the measure and its implementation can be found in official EU communications and documentation from sea area assessments. References are attributed to the European Commission and to the International Council for Marine Exploration as primary sources for the scientific basis of these protections.
Notes for readers emphasize that the new rules are part of a broader effort to protect marine environments while engaging with industry and stakeholders in a constructive, open process. They reflect a continuing effort to strike a balance between safeguarding ocean health and supporting sustainable fisheries in the Northeast Atlantic region.