Limassol, Cyprus. Marine conservation group Oceana has urged Cyprus to ban bottom trawling within its territorial waters and establish an exclusive coastal fishing zone for small-scale fishers. The group said the measures would deliver environmental and economic benefits at minimal cost.
Proposal announced during European Maritime Day
Oceana announced the proposal on Thursday to coincide with European Maritime Day in Limassol, alongside the release of new analysis examining bottom trawling activity in Cypriot waters.
Analysis shows limited bottom trawling within territorial waters
According to Oceana, five bottom trawlers operated within Cyprus’ 12-nautical-mile territorial waters between 2021 and 2025, logging just over 750 hours of fishing activity in total. Oceana said most of that activity came from two Cypriot vessels.
Call for a protected coastal zone for small-scale fishers
Oceana said the figures indicate that creating a protected coastal zone for small-scale fishers would have little impact on commercial fishing, while helping preserve marine ecosystems and support coastal communities.
“Cyprus has a clear opportunity to strengthen its coastal economy while protecting the sea it depends on,” Oceana policy advisor Odran Corcoran said.
Concerns over bottom trawling impacts
Bottom trawling involves dragging weighted nets across the seabed and is considered one of the most destructive fishing methods due to the damage it causes to marine habitats.
Support from coastal fishermen and wider conservation aims
The Cyprus Union of Professional Coastal Fishermen backed the proposal, urging the fisheries department to support the creation of a preferential access area.
Oceana said banning bottom trawling would also help protect marine species, strengthen ecosystems against climate change, and safeguard marine protected areas, many of which lie within Cyprus’ territorial waters.
Protected waters and EU target
Cyprus currently protects 12 per cent of its waters, which Oceana said remains below the European Union target of 30 per cent by 2030.
What steps should Cyprus take next to evaluate a bottom trawling ban and an exclusive coastal fishing zone?
