Fisheries and Aquaculture

Assisting governments, regulators and the industry in policy development, assessment and management

Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture have an important role in food security and coastal economies. The UK’s exit from the EU provides new opportunities for reshaping fisheries management and policy in UK waters.

However, fishing grounds are under considerable pressure from demands for space by other users, for example renewable energy. At the same time, aquaculture is becoming an important contributor to meeting the demand for seafood.

ABPmer assists governments and regulators in developing fisheries policy, assessment and management, including addressing interactions between fisheries, marine protected areas (MPAs) and other marine developments. We work closely with all sectors to improve liaison and minimise impacts of developments, and explore opportunities for co-existence and co-location.

We are at the forefront of policy development in relation to fisheries, including fisheries management plans and reimagining international fisheries governance arrangements in the North-East Atlantic.

Our expertise in socio-economic impact assessment has contributed to numerous assessments of the potential impact on the fisheries sector of offshore wind development and MPA management measures, as well as developing guidance on assessing social and economic impacts of fisheries management measures.

Recognised leaders in environmental impact assessment, we undertake assessments of commercial fisheries for EIAs.

With skilled specialists in engagement and qualitative approaches, together with our understanding of the fisheries sector, we undertake a range of evaluations to identify learning and recommendations for future interventions.

Specialists in aquaculture consenting and policy, we provide full planning and licensing support including navigational risk assessments for aquaculture developments. We help identify opportunities and constraints for the sustainable growth of aquaculture, assessing the potential for co-location and maintaining harmony with protected marine features.​

Our depth of understanding of the history and policy of fisheries and aquaculture, combined with thoughtful analysis underpinned by sound and thorough research, has made us highly regarded and industry recognised.


Ready to speak to one of our fisheries and aquaculture specialists about your requirements? Get in touch.

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Offshore wind and fishing activities: is co-location possible?

In light of the complex needs of the offshore wind and fishing industries, our report for Defra considers what adaptations could feasibly enable co-location

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