Success stories

Understanding fish populations is critical to managing Europe’s marine resources sustainably. Yet, for years, stock assessment scientists have struggled with a missing piece of the puzzle: genetic data of fish populations.

The Specialised Committee on Fisheries (SCF) has adopted a decision setting out long-term arrangements between the EU and the UK, granting full reciprocal access to waters for fishing activities until 30 June 2038.

Algae may be small, but their potential is huge. From sustainable food to marine restoration and bioplastics, algae offer innovative solutions that benefit both people and planet.

As the climate crisis worsens, the ocean is both at risk and a source for solutions. Indico Capital Partners, a venture capital firm from Lisbon, is championing ocean-based innovation and develops it on a global scale.

Thanks to EU support, the Swedish start-up company KOASTAL is testing an innovative business model for large scale sustainable sugar kelp cultivation on the west coast of Sweden. The idea is to create a franchise concept where small-scale players, including fishers, will be assisted with everything

Dutch company SeaQurrent uses the steady power of tides for sustainable energy. Their TidalKite System works underwater, moving in figure eights like a flying kite, to capture energy.

Around 550,000 tonnes of fishing gear have accumulated in the European Economic Area, with 12,000 tonnes added annually. The Fishing Without Plastic (PE.S.PLA) project aimed to combat this by developing biodegradable materials for artisanal fishing gear, reducing environmental impact.

Blue Career Centre for Aquaculture Education supported by a gamification approach and distance learning platform. The BlueAquaEdu project kicked off in September 2023 as one of the blue careers project supported by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).

Biharugrai Halgazdaság, located in Hungary’s Southern Great Plains, has revitalised its historic fishpond system with European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF) investments. As Hungary’s second-largest fishpond system operator, the company combines ecological sustainability with economic growth.