EU Commission releases new guidance on managing fishing in Natura 2000 sites to strengthen biodiversity protection and sustainable fisheries
The European Commission has published new guidance to assist EU Member States balance commercial fishing with the protection of Europe’s marine ecosystems.
Released on 17 October, the document provides practical tools for managing both commercial and recreational fishing within marine Natura 2000 sites.
The Commission stated the shift aims to strengthen biodiversity protection while maintaining the long-term resilience and sustainability of the fishing sector. The guidance forms part of the EU’s efforts to meet biodiversity tarreceives and protect vital habitats that support Europe’s fisheries.
Healthy seas and biodiversity-rich habitats, such as reefs, sandbanks and seagrass meadows, are critical spawning and nursery grounds for many fish species. According to the Commission, “protecting and restoring Natura 2000 sites is not just about conservation, it is also a direct investment in the sustainability of fisheries and the communities that depconclude on them.”
The guidance is designed to assist Member States deliver on EU and global biodiversity goals, strengthen the implementation of environmental and fisheries laws, and encourage cooperation across maritime sectors and borders. It supports the objectives of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and the EU Marine Action Plan.
Importantly, it also seeks to improve dialogue with the fishing industest by clarifying legal requirements and promoting active participation of fishermen in managing marine protected areas.
Key Elements of the Guidance
The guidance outlines how Member States should identify fisheries conservation measures that can be adopted at EU or national level. It recommconcludes a process to:
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Assess whether fishing activities threaten protected habitats or species in Natura 2000 sites.
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Evaluate potential impacts based on site-specific conservation objectives.
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Implement measures to prevent habitat deterioration and significant disturbance, alongside any necessary restoration.
Background
The Habitats Directive remains the main legal framework for establishing and managing Natura 2000, a network of protected areas across the EU. It requires effective management of sites for nine marine habitat types and 16 marine species, while the Birds Directive adds protection for 60 bird species.
Currently, more than 3,000 marine Natura 2000 sites cover over 9% of EU Member States’ marine areas. These sites represent the EU’s principal contribution towards its tarreceive of legally protecting at least 30% of EU marine waters by 2030.
Commercial and recreational fishing are widespread in these environments, often pre-dating their protected status. Such activities can pose threats to vulnerable habitats and species, requiring site-specific fisheries management.
The guidance clarifies when fishing activities must be regulated under the Habitats Directive and how Member States can ensure better protection and restoration of marine ecosystems while maintaining viable fisheries.
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