As a topic of growing importance, sustainable fisheries is currently in the spotlight as the goal of many fisheries management measures throughout the globe. In the EU, this is realized through the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP), which calls for a balanced approach through the three pillars of sustainability; environmental, economic and social. As a result, it is pivotal to ensure the renewability of fish stocks in the oceans, protect habitats and threatened species, as well as to empower coastal communities and local economies that rely on fishing.

Looking at solutions, a way to achieve the above is through developing smart and innovative practices, which will enable fishers to fish better, in full respect of biodiversity and the environment in general. Recognizing the important role of market responsibility, this event will serve as an opportunity to present Innomar’s recent development of smart and sustainable fishing gear towards low-impact fishing through digitalization. Specifically, by utilizing intelligent buoys, fishers are now able to monitor their catches, thus ensuring optimal quality of catch without harming the delicate marine environment, while at the same time reducing bycatch and ghost fishing.

Therefore, this upcoming European Parliament Intergroup event aims at highlighting how research and innovation play a key role with regards to achieving sustainable fisheries; the European Union must lead by example with respect to driving the latter, both within its territorial waters and worldwide.

Final Agenda:

14:00 – 14:10 – Welcome remarks by MEP Maria da Graça Carvalho

14:10 – 14:25 – Presentation by David Røisland, COO & Co-founder of Innomar, and Øystein Orten, Fishingboat Captain and Co-owner

14:25 – 15:25 – Interventions by:

• Thomas Gugler, President, The World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WACS)
• Xavier Vanderbeken, CEO, Frais Embal SA
• Elisabetta Balzi, Head of B4 Unit on ‘Healthy Oceans and Seas’, DG RTD, European Commission
• Annette Hurrelmann, Head of C3 Unit on ‘Scientific Advice and Data Collection’, DG MARE, European Commission
• Daniel Voces de Onaíndi, Managing Director, Europêche
• Fredrik Myhre, Acting Team Leader on Ocean, WWF Norway

15:25 – 15:50 – Q&As with the audience

15:50 – 16:00 – Take-away messages by MEP Maria da Graça Carvalho