Industrial sandeel fishing ban a proud day for Scotland’s puffins and other iconic seabirds
The Scottish Government’s announced ban on industrial sandeel fishing has been hailed by the Scottish Greens, who have called it a “proud day for puffins” and a huge boost for Scotland’s iconic seabirds.
Sandeels are a vital life source for our seas, particularly for puffins and kittiwakes which are globally threatened with extinction.
Scotland’s fishers have already stopped this destructive practice, with 94% of sandeel fishing in Scottish waters being done by Danish fishers for animal feed.
The Scottish Greens spokesperson for coastal communities, Ariane Burgess MSP, welcomed the announcement, saying: “This is a huge boost for our seas and a proud day for Scotland’s puffins, kittiwakes and other iconic seabirds.
“Sandeels are a vital life source for the seabirds who depend on them, and this will ensure a far greater and more sustainable supply in the future while better protecting our marine environment.
“Scotland’s fishers already stopped this destructive practice, with the vast majority being done by Danish vessels. It is right and fair that the ban has been extended so that we can better protect our vital marine life.”