What actually happens when a bottom trawler drags its net? 🌊
Most of the destruction happens somewhere we cannot see: on the seafloor.
But the damage isn’t limited to the habitat. Bottom trawling can also catch marine animals indiscriminately, including species the vessel never intended to catch.
That’s why, when our crews and partner authorities inspect fishing vessels in West Africa, we’re not only looking for potential violations. Our onboard biologists can document what is being caught and collect data that helps authorities better understand what is happening in their waters.
That information can help inform fisheries policy, strengthen regulations and improve protection for marine ecosystems.
Because what happens far offshore and beneath the surface shouldn’t remain out of sight. 🔬🌊
Watch as Emma, our onboard biologist on the #AgeOfUnion in West Africa, explains how bottom trawling works and why understanding its impact matters.
📸 Sophie Lin / Sea Shepherd
#bottomtrawling
