Research project EcoCatch: digital solutions for bycatch in the North and East Seas

General introduction

ECO-CATCH is an international project involving 35 partners from 10 countries, aimed at reducing bycatch in the Baltic and North Sea fisheries. Through close cooperation between fishermen, researchers, and technology developers, practical and scalable solutions are being developed that both protect biodiversity and maintain the economic viability of the sector. The ECO-CATCH project aims to drastically reduce bycatch in European fisheries by developing innovative, ready-to-use technologies. By integrating these digital tools into commercial fishing activities and demonstrating their effectiveness in multiple countries, ECO-CATCH is paving the way for more sustainable and profitable fishing.

Research approach

In collaboration with fishermen, real-time AI detection systems (automatic recognition on board) are being developed and linked to a series of decision support tools. Alternative fishing gear to reduce bycatch of vulnerable species and juvenile fish is being developed and tested. The digital tools are being integrated into commercial fishing activities and their effectiveness is being demonstrated in several countries. The strategy focuses on co-creation with the sector, scaling up to ready-to-use applications, and quantifying both ecological and economic effects for policy and certification. Demonstrations in various fisheries should show broad applicability.

Relevance/Valorization

The expected result of ECO-CATCH is an effective reduction in bycatch in North Sea and Baltic Sea fisheries through a combination of planned innovative solutions. Close cooperation with fishermen leads to the development of technologies and fishing gears that are not only ecologically sustainable but also economically viable. The use of AI-driven detection systems and tools increases the transparency of fishing activities and facilitates certification (such as MSC). It is hoped that new market opportunities for sustainable fish products will also arise. ECO-CATCH indirectly contributes to the preservation of marine biodiversity and the future of the fishing industry.

Financing

EU Horizon Europe