Campaigners hail plan to ban bottom trawling in half of England’s protected seas
GuardianJUN 9
UK Proposes Expanded Bottom Trawling Ban in Marine Areas
Above: A crew onboard a fishing trawler brings in their catch on May 21, 2025 in Hastings, England. Image copyright: Dan Kitwood/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
This ban represents crucial action to save marine ecosystems from devastating destruction. Bottom trawling bulldozes the seafloor with weighted nets, indiscriminately destroying delicate habitats that took decades to develop. The economic benefits alone justify this decision, with projected net gains of billions over the years through enhanced environmental protection and boosted fish populations.
Right narrative
The fishing industry has operated sustainably and successfully for over a century without destroying sensitive seabed features that exist today. Trawling barely penetrates sediment in most areas and provides essential livelihoods for coastal communities. This rushed decision ignores the industry's expertise and will force the industry to switch to more carbon-intensive forms of fishing.