Danish fishermen have called on EU leaders to agree on a binding plan to save the Baltic Sea, as ministers gather in Stockholm today.
The Danish Fishermen’s Association (DFPO) warns that the sea is under severe pressure, with commercial fishing in the Baltic almost gone.
Chairman Svend-Erik Andersen says the time for promises has passed: “We don’t need more conferences and speeches. We need a binding action plan that tackles the many pressures destroying the Baltic Sea.”
Ministers under pressure
Several Danish ministers will attend the EU Commission’s high-level meeting, which is set to issue a joint declaration.
DFPO urges them to push hard on the Commission and fellow Baltic states. Andersen stresses that Denmark cannot solve the crisis alone:
“It’s vital that we act together. We hope our ministers are ready to fight and put maximum pressure on all parties.”
Many threats to the sea
The Baltic suffers from a mix of problems, including nitrogen runoff, chemical pollution, and growing seal and cormorant populations.
DFPO argues that all Baltic nations must take responsibility for their actions. While Denmark has advanced its domestic efforts through its “green tripartite” deals, the association aims to raise environmental action across the EU.
Fishermen ready to contribute
Despite fishing in the Baltic being almost shut down, Danish fishermen say they are ready for dialogue on how the industry can contribute to restoring the marine environment.
Andersen notes that the upcoming review of the EU’s Common Fisheries Policy presents an opportunity to build a more sustainable future.
The conference is expected to end with a joint statement, as it did in 2020. Then, no binding measures followed — a scenario Danish fishermen say must not be repeated.