Project
SMP25039 Developing a roadmap towards an innovative platform and business model for sustainable fishing in offshore wind farm
The Dutch fishing industry faces a lot of challenges due to various causes as Brexit, pulse ban, high fuel prices and closed areas due to nature reserves and offshore wind farms (OWFs). While the construction of OWFs conflicts with traditional active fishing methods, the ongoing research and development of safe, mostly passive fishing methods could offer a way forward.
A small group of fishermen already has participated in the research conducted on fishing possibilities within OWFs in the Netherlands. Two fishermen, are eager to continue to work on a robust business model and adapt their current fishing practices to a sustainable, small-scale fishery suitable for use in OWFs. To accelerate their development of knowledge, international collaboration with commercial fishermen and stakeholders such as fishermen producers organizations, windfarm owners and scientists is necessary. In the United Kingdom fishermen have the most experience with commercial fishing in OWFs and they can, in turn, benefit from the research findings we already have achieved in the Netherlands.
In addition to practical experience in previous projects in the Netherlands, there will also be opportunities to exchange knowledge on legislation, communication with OWF operators, practical safety issues and promising fishing techniques and business models through questionnaires, workshops and interviews with relevant stakeholders.
This project will function as a springboard for international cooperation between different groups of fishermen and scientists who are trying to make the ambitions of co-use of windfarms work. With this project, we are laying the foundation for international approved guidelines by bundling the (very limited) experience that is available.