The European Parliament has backed a push for fleet renewal schemes, legal changes, and additional funding to accelerate the decarbonisation of the EU fishing fleet.
MEPs adopted the report on 18 December by a wide margin, warning that current rules block investment and slow the energy transition.
The report calls on the European Commission and member states to promote vessel renewal schemes in partnership with the private sector.
It also urges changes to the Common Fisheries Policy and the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), which MEPs say “severely restrict” public and private finance for greener vessels.
Fleet renewal and funding gaps
MEPs stress that the EU fleet is old, with an average age of 31.5 years. They argue that decarbonisation will fail without more and better funding. The report calls for new funding tools beyond EMFAF and lower regulatory barriers to enable owners to invest in safer, cleaner vessels.
Small-scale operators are a key concern. They make up 76% of the EU fleet and often lack the capital to modernise. Parliament warns that climate goals must be realistic and economically viable for these fishers.
To cut fuel use, the report proposes energy audits for fishing vessels, funded through EMFAF. It also points to tools such as artificial intelligence to plan routes and improve efficiency. MEPs call for a phased roadmap based on solid science and data.
Gear, safety and working conditions
Parliament also wants more investment in selective fishing gear to reduce unwanted catches and protect marine habitats. Better port infrastructure and vessel upgrades are needed to improve safety and living conditions on board.
Rapporteur Ton Diepeveen said the report sets out a “practical approach” that supports investment, innovation and generational renewal in the sector.