ClientEarth and NGOs file fresh EU legal action over bottom trawling in Marine Protected Areas, citing alleged regulatory breaches. Photo: CEPESCA
Complaint Filed Against Denmark, Spain, Netherlands
ClientEarth, alongside Oceana, Seas at Risk, and Danmarks Naturfredningsforening, has lodged a formal complaint with the European Commission concerning the continued use of bottom trawling within designated Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Denmark, Spain, and the Netherlands.
The NGOs argue that allowing bottom-contact fishing activities in MPAs breaches the EU Habitats Directive and undermines marine conservation objectives. They are urging the European Commission to initiate infringement proceedings to clarify the legal standing of such activity within MPAs.
John Condon, ocean lawyer with ClientEarth, said the groups are seeking legal clarity: “We believe EU law does not allow for harmful fishing methods in protected areas. The Commission must confirm this interpretation and act accordingly.”
This latest action follows a separate EU General Court ruling that confirmed MPAs must be protected from potentially harmful practices. The complaint also references evidence suggesting that up to 60% of EU MPAs are currently subject to bottom trawling.
Industry Concerns and Policy Response
While the use of bottom-contact gear has long been a source of contention in conservation discussions, some fishing organisations have cautioned against blanket bans, citing socioeconomic impacts on coastal communities and small-scale operations.
Tobias Troll of Seas at Risk said: “We are calling on EU policymakers to uphold existing laws. Legal protection must mean practical protection on the water.”
The NGOs are also pressing for Member States to develop clear plans to regulate and eventually phase out bottom trawling in certain MPAs where its use may conflict with stated conservation aims.
The groups point to recent government moves in countries like Sweden and Greece to restrict or prohibit bottom trawling in parts of their MPAs as examples of how regulatory clarity can be achieved.
Public Support and Wider Pressure
Public backing for tougher restrictions continues to grow. A petition organised by Protect Our Catch and Patagonia gathered 250,000 signatures across the EU, calling for an end to bottom trawling in protected zones.
Meanwhile, the legal challenge comes just ahead of the United Nations Ocean Conference, where international delegates are expected to recommit to the 30×30 goal — designating 30% of marine areas as protected by 2030.
ClientEarth and its co-complainants say their aim is not to demonise a single fishing method, but to ensure that EU conservation rules are applied consistently and transparently. As the Commission reviews the complaint, the fishing industry will be watching closely for signals on how future MPA rules will be enforced.
Source: Press Release