A new management framework for western Mediterranean demersal fisheries. (February 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sánchez Lizaso, José Luis; Sola, Ivan; Guijarro-García, Elena; Bellido, José Maria; Franquesa, Ramón
• Is Part Of: Marine policy. Volume 112(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-02
• Subjects: Fisheries management -- European fisheries policy -- Mediterranean -- Multiannual plan; Marine resources -- Economic aspects -- Periodicals; Fisheries -- Periodicals; Ressources marines -- Aspect économique -- Périodiques; Pêches -- Périodiques; Fisheries; Marine resources -- Economic aspects; Periodicals; 333.916405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpol.2019.103772
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0308-597X

Abstract

Abstract: The Common Fisheries Policy in the Mediterranean has been so far based on technical measures that have been relatively stable for a long time, and it did not prevent the efficiency increase in both vessels and gears that have counterbalanced the fleet reduction. The new Multiannual Plan for Demersal fish stocks in the western Mediterranean Sea introduces a fishing effort regime as a new approach to reduce significantly fishing time, allowing stocks to approach MSY in the medium term. However, different approaches to reduce fishing time may have different socio-economic impacts that have to be considered. The reduction of fishing time has to be complemented with selectivity improvements, temporal and permanent closures and local co-management plans to protect both juveniles and spawners. The combination of several measures will soften the need for effort reduction and it will contribute significantly to the sustainability of Mediterranean Fisheries. Highlights: The CFP in the Mediterranean has been relatively stable for a long time. There is a new management framework for western Mediterranean demersal fish stocks. Demersal Mediterranean fisheries will be science-based managed for first time. The reduction of fishing time has to be complemented with additional measures. Socio-economic impact will differ on chosen strategies to lower fishing mortality.