Study on ecosystem-based approaches applied to fisheries management under the Common Fisheries Policy for the Mediterranean and Black Seas : final report

This study addresses the EU Common Fisheries Policy's (CFP) call for ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management (EAFM) by evaluating its implementation in the Mediterranean and Black Seas. Building on previous research (Piet and Arthur, 2022), it assesses the legal setting of EAFM, challenges, and management measures. The study identifies key EAFM challenges that are grouped into three types: fisheries' ecosystem impact, environmental influences on fish and fishing, and the interplay of socio-economic and governance factors on fisheries management. It classifies the commercial and recreational fisheries, management measures, and policy instruments in the Mediterranean and Black Seas thereby creating relevant typologies. Three main categories of management measures are identified: Input and output measures, and measures aimed at active ecosystem restoration. Findings reveal a considerable amount of research on fisheries and management that is conducive towards the application of EAFM. However, for the successful implementation of EAFM, the fragmented nature of current biological resource management and unbalanced knowledge of the different associated disciplines needs to be considered. EAFM challenges are not specific to a country or an ecoregion, implying that fisheries management needs to consider wider geographic and regional aspects in an EAFM. To overcome challenges, management measures should connect interested parties through active engagement and participation of stakeholders, integrate regulations and define cross-sectoral policies, ultimately aiming to reduce the impact of human activities on ecosystems. The study identifies key lessons from case studies and underscores the importance of stakeholder involvement, inter- and transdisciplinary approaches, and inclusive knowledge sharing for effective EAFM implementation.