This year’s edition of the annual Seminar on Fisheries Science of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE) will focus on marine protected areas (MPAs).

Today, most marine ecosystems have suffered changes through anthropogenic activities. The need to protect or restore marine biodiversity and fish stocks has led to increasing calls for the establishment of MPAs. With a target of protecting at least 30% of EU waters by 2030, MPAs are an integral element of the Biodiversity Strategy, promoting a larger EU-wide network of protected areas with specific fisheries-management measures according to clear conservation objectives and based on scientific advice.

The seminar will include an introductory presentation about how MPAs can benefit fisheries. The programme also includes a presentation on a successful case study about the Torre Guaceto MPA (Italy) in the Mediterranean. The scientists involved will offer insights into the outcomes, lessons learnt and recommendations from their work. Finally, different stakeholders will take part in a panel discussion to explore several aspects of MPAs and their benefits for fisheries.

The half-day event will take place virtually on 1st June 2021 from 9:15. It will bring together a wide range of stakeholders such as scientists, MPA managers, fishing industry, NGOs, and the representatives of the European Commission, Parliament, Council and Member States. The seminar will include a video booth, where attendees will be able to record their testimonials, share ideas and ask questions about MPAs. The event will also be live-streamed on Twitter using the dedicated hashtag #EUFishEcon.