The UK’s vibrant seas and rich fishing heritage are inseparable. But this silent bycatch crisis beneath the waves threatens both.

This isn’t because people don’t care! For those in the fishing industry, this is a distressing and unwanted part of the job; but in an uncertain economy and without financial support, many are unable to make changes that might leave them struggling to compete.

For our marine ecosystem, this is an emergency. Many of these species play pivotal roles in our oceans, which are already under massive pressure from climate change and pollution. 

The current system simply isn’t working for anyone, and we’re calling for government action to ensure:

· Action, not just words: Legally-binding, time-bound bycatch action plans for high-risk species within all Fisheries Management Plans. 

· Universal monitoring: Rolling out effective reporting across the entire fleet—from industrial vessels to small inshore boats—to build an evidence base that actually works. 

· A fair deal for fishers: Providing the financial support and incentives fishers need to adopt changes without losing their competitive edge. 

· Innovation: Funding urgent research into new technologies that make "zero-bycatch" a reality. 

Make a difference today 

Progress by the UK Government on this issue has been far too slow and unnecessary deaths remain stubbornly high.

But for the first time, a new report, released on the 9 June, is revealing the data behind the nets, demonstrating the true scale of bycatch in UK waters.

As part of the Wildlife and Countryside Link coalition, we’re calling for Government action.

This could be a watershed moment in turning this crisis around, but we need MPs to be in the room when the report is launched in Parliament on 10 June.

Because if they don’t understand the problem, they won’t tackle it.

Make sure your MP is there by emailing them today so they can learn the scale of the crisis and pledge to act. We have prepared an e-action to make it super easy for you to contact your MP and ask them to go along. 

Email your MP here 

This report launch is the first step in bringing about a sea change for marine life.

In the weeks and months ahead, we’ll be sharing more about our asks for government and how you can help protect dolphins, sharks, seals, and the many other species that are caught up in the bycatch crisis. Find out more and how you can stay connected here.

Thank you for standing up for our seas.