North Pacific Fisheries Commission declines protections for Emperor Seamount Chain

The North Pacific Fisheries Commission (NPFC) recently failed to adopt new measures to protect the Emperor Seamount Chain, despite the US and Canadian delegations proposing a temporary halt on trawling activities. These underwater mountains, once heavily exploited by bottom trawlers, are crucial for diverse marine life. Although the NPFC did regulate the fishing of the Pacific saury, a severely depleted species, the lack of action on trawling reflects ongoing challenges in balancing conservation efforts with industry interests in the region. (Mongabay)