"By joining the ETP Support Group, members will have the opportunity to play a critical role in shaping the future of energy transition in EU fisheries and aquaculture, promoting best practices and contributing to the development of the Energy Transition roadmap."
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The European Commission's Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries is inviting stakeholders to join a newly established Support Group within the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) for EU fisheries and aquaculture, with the deadline for applications set for 23 September 2024.
The ETP Support Group will serve as an advisory and consultative body, playing a crucial role in advancing the energy transition within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors towards climate neutrality by 2050, the Directorate-General says.
The initiative is described as a key part of the EU’s broader strategy to enhance sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of these industries.
"Currently, technical, financial, regulatory, and other barriers prevent many EU fishers, aquaculture producers from accelerating the energy transition in the sector. Working together with a wide range of stakeholders to achieve concrete and practical solutions is therefore essential for making the transition," the ETP website states.
"The Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) invites all stakeholders which genuine interest in accelerating the transition, to work together on a voluntary basis to bring forward the energy transition in the sector. It will be the platform for stakeholder dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. Stakeholders expressing interest in the Partnership will participate in dialogues and workshops of different themes, notably on innovation, knowledge gaps, technology, skills and finance."
The Support Group will be composed of 10 coordinators, each representing a distinct stakeholder category, including Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries (SSCF), Large-Scale Fisheries (LSF), Distant Water Fisheries (DWF), Inland and Offshore Aquaculture, Ports, the Processing Industry, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), the Fishing Shipbuilding Industry, and Research Organisations and Academia.
These coordinators will be tasked with developing engagement within their respective sectors, gathering valuable input, and coordinating discussions to contribute to the development of the Energy Transition roadmap. Additionally, they will disseminate information and promote best practices to ensure that the transition is inclusive and effective.
According to the EC, "By joining the ETP Support Group, members will have the opportunity to play a critical role in shaping the future of energy transition in EU fisheries and aquaculture, promoting best practices and contributing to the development of the Energy Transition roadmap."
Members of the group will thus be at the forefront of promoting sustainable practices and shaping the regulatory and financial frameworks necessary for a successful energy transition.
The goal is to create a group that accurately represents the diversity of stakeholders across sectors and sea basins, the Directorate states.
The Support Group's work will concentrate on several thematic areas, including skills development, research and innovation, financing, regulatory frameworks, and setting ambitious goals for the energy transition.
Further information on eligibility and how to apply can be found at the European Commission's Energy Transition Partnership website. The application deadline is 23 September 2024.