The Scottish Conservation Credits Scheme Moving fisheries management towards conservation Dr Richard Dixon / Louize Hill WWF Scotland
What is the Conservation Credits Scheme ? credits fishermen for taking conservation measures with extra days at sea. conservation measures decided on by a Steering Group which meets monthly industry’s ownership of the measures means they are understood and therefore followed dynamic and responsive, so measures are adapted and revised according to any changes in either resources or opportunity
The key measures under the scheme: Closures – real time, seasonal and permanent Gear regulations – one net rule, selective gear High grading ban Observers – human and onboard cameras (REM) Effort management
Closed areas RTC
Selective gear Figures from WWF document: “Effective discard reduction in European fisheries - Options for fishers and fisheries managers”
Observers Onboard cameras Images from: “Final Report of Fully Documented Fishery” by J. Dalskov and L. Kindt-Larsen, DTU, Sept 2009
Who is involved in the Scheme ? Scottish Government Marine Scotland Science scientists Fishing industry representatives Retailer and processor representatives (since Dec 09) Environmental NGOs (WWF) Observers
Reasons why WWF supports the Scheme It is innovative – a rare example of government, industry and NGOs working together towards a common goal (cod conservation) A good example of how regional governance and co- management can work A step away from top down management The direction WWF would like to see CFP reform going
Why WWF is promoting this Scheme globally ? a model that can be applied in many ecosystems we want to see Government, industry and NGOs working together to find local solutions to their management challenges each individual Scheme will be unique and will address the specific conservation issues of their fisheries
For further information A document explaining the scheme in more detail can be downloaded from: conservation_credits_scheme.pdf Otherwise please contact: Louize Hill –