UK Marine and Fisheries Minister Ben Bradshaw has urged countries around the world to stop destructive fishing practices that damage seamounts and other deep sea environments.
He stressed that action should be taken now to protect these sensitive ecosystems from bottom trawling.
Talking to leading marine scientists at the 11 th International Deep Sea Biology Symposium, Southampton, the Minister said: “The international community needs to change direction, and quickly.
“I want to see the end of destructive deep sea bottom trawling. As a next step we should stop bottom trawling where it threatens seamounts, cold water corals, hydrothermal vents or similar vulnerable ecosystems.”
Mr Bradshaw said that the UK's Government and scientific and research community are leading the world through their work to improve the marine environment. But he stressed worldwide action is needed.
Mr Bradshaw also said that the international community needs a more integrated approach to oceans governance with the establishment of marine protected areas for the high seas, and the sustainable management of the genetic resources of the deep sea bed.
The United Nations General Secretary is expected to publish a report shortly which reviews actions by the international community in tackling destructive fisheries practices on sensitive ecosystems.
Mr Bradshaw said: “This will be the trigger for countries to decide what might be achieved at the UN General Assembly later in the year.”
