EU Partnership Targets Sustainable Solutions for Fisheries as Danish Fisheries Face CO₂ Tax Pressure

SEA Europe representing European shipyards and maritime equipment manufacturers, has announced that Vincent Guerre, Director for Trade and Competitiveness, has been appointed as the coordinator for the shipbuilding industry within the EU Energy Transition Partnership for Fisheries and Aquaculture. The initiative, backed by the European Commission, aims to decarbonize the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, enhancing sustainability and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

The partnership includes coordinators from key sectors, including fisheries, aquaculture, and shipbuilding, who will work together to gather recommendations and best practices. Danish Maritime encourages the partnership to collaborate with vessel designers, shipyards, and technology developers to support the European Commission’s efforts in creating a comprehensive roadmap for climate-neutral operations in the industry.

In Denmark the importance of this partnership is underlined by the fact that the Danish fisheries are included in the Danish CO₂-tax. A primary issue is the industry’s reliance on diesel fuel, with no viable alternatives currently available. The CO₂ tax is intended to promote a green transition; however, without accessible and sustainable energy sources and green technologies, the tax may inadvertently force many fishermen out of business, the fisheries industry warns. We hope this partnership can help promote energy efficient technologies and climate neutral propulsion for the fisheries sector.