According to a recent study commissioned by WWF, the fisheries sector could earn an extra €2.1bn per year if politicians vote for fish stock recovery.
The new independent study, Socio-Economic benefits of a bold EU fisheries reform, which was carried out by Framian BV, is the first to look at potential social and economics benefits of the fisheries sector from an EU viewpoint.
The study indicated that if politicians vote for a strong EU fisheries reform with the right operation that will allow fish stocks to recover; significant benefits could be seen in 10 years from now.
Tony Long, director, WWF’s European policy office, said: “A long-term stable supply of fish is possible, but only if fish resources are managed sustainably. EU fisheries have been close to the edge of bankruptcy. Our politicians have the opportunity and the power to secure profit for industry and income for fishermen - so they must ensure a progressive reform of the Common Fisheries Policy.”
The study also found that a common reform could mean that EU fishermen could land an additional 2.8 million tonnes of sustainably caught fish along with a 50% increase in income per fishermen. The fisheries sector could also produce an extra income of €2.1bn per year.
After years of decline in the fisheries industry, WWF is calling for a Common Fisheries Policy that will secure a successful future for fish stocks and the fishing sector.
