Innovative Technological Solutions for Sea Fisheries Control and Enforcement

Tender description

The objectives of this project are to: 1. Assess and prioritise current and future fisheries control and enforcement challenges in the UK EEZ; 2. Identify and appraise innovative solutions for addressing those, including building upon current methods and technology developments; and, if appropriate 3. Undertake proof of concept/trial work of solutions that are considered highest priority. The challenges to fisheries control and enforcement cover a broad range of surveillance methods stretching from detection to deterrence. The Marine Management Organisation (MMO), has been reviewing technology developments that have potential in Blue Belt marine areas as well as in the context of domestic monitoring and control in areas such as remotely monitoring human activity and identifying any risk associated with that activity, digital on-board observation of catches and downstream traceability. The full suite of technology options require assessment with a view to determining efficient outcomes that address specific challenges that modern fisheries management policy presents. The enforcement challenges are very different between the overseas territories and the UK EEZ. The evidence gathered from the project may be used to enhance the Government’s approach to fisheries control and enforcement. It will be important that any solutions are able to provide evidence which would be admissible in court, as well as to enable the benefits of enhanced data collection and accountability. What we want to achieve Developments in areas such as satellite technology, robotics, autonomous systems, machine learning, block chain and fish catch monitoring systems, have the potential to complement existing control and enforcement methods. A report by the Government Office for Science highlighted the potential that new technologies and innovative approaches have, in transforming the way industries develop. The report outlined four potential areas that next-generation technologies could