Hilborn et al (2026) Decarbonizing Fisheries Through Ensuring Healthy Stock Status Fish and Fisheries
This study examines how fisheries can reduce their carbon footprint by improving fish stock health, rather than relying only on new fuels or technologies. Analysing long-term data from European and North American bottom trawl fisheries, the authors show that fuel use per tonne of fish decreases as stock abundance increases, because fish are easier to find and require less time and fuel to catch. The results also indicate that overcapacity and high fishing pressure increase fuel use, while balanced fleet sizes and sustainable harvest limits improve energy efficiency. These patterns are especially clear in bottom fisheries, where catch rates closely reflect stock density. Overall, the study shows that it is in fishers’ own best interest to support measures that maintain and rebuild healthy stocks, as this leads to lower costs, lower emissions and more stable long-term livelihoods
