European Bottom Trawling: The Hidden Cost of Carbon Emissions and Bycatch
insideclimatenews.orgA new study reveals that bottom trawling in European waters causes significant environmental damage and economic loss. By dragging heavy nets across the seafloor, these vessels release stored carbon dioxide and kill vast amounts of non-target marine life, creating a massive societal cost. Research indicates that these activities cost up to $18.5 billion annually. The study highlights a critical failure in regulation, as a quarter of this destructive fishing occurs within Marine Protected Areas, undermining climate goals and ocean biodiversity.
