---
title: UK MPAs faced over 100,000 hours of industrial fishing in 2023
description: UK MPAs faced over 100,000 hours of industrial fishing in 2023
---

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# UK MPAs faced over 100,000 hours of industrial fishing in 2023

Recent analysis reveals that over 100,000 hours of industrial fishing, including 33,000 hours by vessels using bottom-towed gear, occurred within the UK's offshore marine protected areas (MPAs) in 2023. This intensive bottom trawling, responsible for severe ecological damage, was predominantly conducted by just 10 non-UK fishing vessels. Oceana UK's study, leveraging satellite data from Global Fishing Watch, underscores the urgent need for stronger government action to prohibit such destructive fishing practices in MPAs. With two of the most affected sites located off Cornwall's coast, the detrimental effects on biodiversity and carbon storage are profound. Ahead of the UK general election, Oceana UK advocates for a complete ban on bottom trawling across all MPAs, a move supported by over three-quarters of the UK public. The UK Government's upcoming consultation on offshore MPAs and the Scottish Government's commitments are critical junctures for enacting more robust protections to safeguard these essential ecosystems for future generations. ([Oceanographic)](https://oceanographicmagazine.com/news/uks-mpas-subjected-to-over-33000-hours-of-bottom-trawling/#:~:text=The%20UK's%20Marine%20Protected%20Areas,indiscriminately%20scooping%20up%20untargeted%20wildlife)

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