BREAKING: EU Court Aims To End Bottom Trawling in MPA's

EU Court Upholds Protections Against Bottom Trawling in Marine Protected Areas

May 22, 2025

In a significant victory for marine conservation, the General Court of the European Union has upheld the European Commission's decision to implement stricter protections against bottom trawling in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). This ruling confirms that member states have the authority to enforce measures banning destructive fishing practices in vulnerable marine ecosystems.

Bottom trawling is the most destructive fishing method on earth. It's a method that uses a net smashing its way across the seabed and destroying everything in its path. The fishermen are often on the hunt for just a single species and therefore, 75% of the catch is usually wasted and thrown back into sea. It's hard to think of a more wasteful way to catch fish...

Background

The case originated when Germany and the Netherlands requested the European Commission to amend a 2017 regulation to introduce stronger protections in the North Sea MPAs. Following consultations, the Commission adopted new regulations on December 8, 2022. However, a German fishing group, VDK, challenged these regulations, seeking to overturn the restrictions on harmful fishing practices.

The Court's Decision

On May 21, 2025, the EU General Court dismissed VDK's challenge, affirming that member states have the right under EU law to implement measures banning destructive fishing techniques like bottom trawling in vulnerable marine areas. The court emphasized that existing EU conservation laws are sufficient to protect MPAs, provided there is the political will to enforce them.

Implications for Marine Conservation

Bottom trawling, which involves dragging heavy nets across the seafloor, is known for its detrimental impact on marine ecosystems, destroying habitats and reducing biodiversity. This ruling is seen as a significant victory for marine conservationists who have long advocated for stricter enforcement of protections within MPAs.

Expert Opinions

John Condon, a senior lawyer at ClientEarth, stated: "The European Court’s rejection of the lawsuit against protective measures in the North Sea is a critical victory for marine conservation. Science-backed bans on destructive bottom trawling must be the rule in all protected areas – without exception."

Dr. Jean-Luc Solandt, Senior Project Manager at the Blue Marine Foundation, added: "The General Court of the EU has ruled that member states can take what conservation measures are necessary to ban trawling and other destructive techniques in vulnerable areas and that these measures comply with EU law. This is good news for our seas because destructive forms of fishing are currently prevalent inside most EU Marine Protected Areas, which is the opposite of what the public expects."

Public Awareness and Advocacy

The court's decision coincides with the release of Sir David Attenborough's latest documentary, Ocean, which has brought unprecedented attention to the issue of bottom trawling. The film features never-before-seen footage of the devastating effects of bottom trawling on marine ecosystems, likening the practice to bulldozing a rainforest. Attenborough's powerful message has resonated with audiences worldwide, leading to increased public support for stronger marine protections.

Looking Ahead

With the European Oceans Pact on the horizon, this ruling serves as a call to action for the EU and its member states to enforce existing conservation laws effectively. The decision underscores the importance of political commitment in safeguarding marine biodiversity and ensuring the health of Europe's oceans for future generations.

For more information, please visit the Blue Marine Foundation's official announcement.

Bottom Trawling Visualization: