EU set to miss 2030 marine protection targets, auditors warn
Despite designating 14% of its waters as protected areas, the EU has placed less than 1% under strict protection, leaving marine ecosystems vulnerable to damaging fishing practices and putting its 2030 biodiversity targets at risk.
The European Court of Auditors warns that the European Union is unlikely to achieve its 2030 marine protection targets. Currently, only 14% of EU waters are designated as marine protected areas, with less than 1% under strict protection. The EU aims to protect 30% of its marine waters by 2030, including 10% under strict protection.
The auditors argue that merely expanding the network of protected areas will not suffice without tougher restrictions on damaging activities such as commercial fishing. Iliana Ivanova, the ECA member overseeing the audit, emphasized the challenge of transforming designation into actual protection. Imposing stricter restrictions may face political opposition, particularly if it impacts fishing communities and other affected industries without proper consultation or support.
Several countries, like France and Sweden, have made strides through community involvement and banning bottom trawling. However, Ireland has struggled due to data gaps and legal delays. Additional obstacles to enforcement include a shortage of staff, inadequate funding, and cumbersome administrative procedures. Authorities can identify harmful activities but lack the resources or legal authority to prevent them.
The auditors urge the European Commission and EU countries to adopt more harmonized and enforceable conservation rules. While designating protected areas may be politically easier, implementing the necessary restrictions could affect fishing fleets operating across borders, creating tensions between biodiversity goals and economic interests of coastal communities.
Fragmented financing also hampers protection efforts, as conservation relies on national budgets and various EU funding instruments. Securing support from affected communities may prove challenging, as adopting conservation measures affecting fishing fleets can be complex and lengthy, often requiring negotiations between member states and stakeholders.
Despite extensive planning, few conservation measures have been adopted since 2013. According to Monica Verbeek, executive director of NGO Seas At Risk, Europe lacks the necessary policies, solutions, and scientific knowledge to ensure the successful implementation of conservation measures.
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