The Baltic Sea is considered the most polluted sea in Europe. It faces challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, eutrophication, past overfishing, and high contaminants like pharmaceuticals and litter. This situation is causing concerns about the sustainability of the important fisheries in the area. In response, the Commission has proposed the 2025 fishing opportunities for the Baltic Sea.
This proposal relies on a scientific assessment that indicates several fisheries are in a critical state. On August 26, the Commission proposed the total allowable catches (TACs) and quotas for nine of the ten stocks managed by the EU in the Baltic Sea. The quota proposal for the remaining stock, Bothnian herring, will be submitted later.
The European Commission has proposed changes to fishing quotas in the Baltic Sea, with the potential to bring about positive change. The Commission aims to increase quotas for central Baltic herring and herring in the Gulf of Riga but decrease quotas for salmon, sprat, and certain cod species.
These proposals, based on scientific advice from the International Council on the Exploration of the Seas (ICES), aim to align with the Baltic Sea multiannual management plan. New measures are expected to reduce cod by-catches, and actions are proposed to protect declining sprat stocks and vulnerable salmon populations. If implemented, these changes could significantly improve the health of the Baltic Sea’s fisheries.
The European Union is proposing fishing opportunities to align with long-term sustainability targets. The Baltic Sea is facing challenges with declining fish stocks and environmental degradation. The proposal addresses these issues by regulating fishing activities and promoting sustainable practices. The Council will review and decide on the proposal during its 21-22 October 2024 meeting.
