Extra quota for UK fishers who commit to sustainability

UK fishers demonstrating clear environmental, social, and economic benefits in their fishing practices are set to receive over 8,600 tonnes of additional fishing quota this week, under an expanded government trial aimed at promoting sustainable growth in the sector.

The 2025 Quota Application Mechanism (QAM), developed by the UK's Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), has been expanded to include "non-sector" (independently operated) vessels over 10 metres, following a successful pilot trial last year.

Applicants to the expanded 2025 trial were assessed on how they plan to use the additional quota to deliver a range of benefits. These include investing in environmentally friendly fishing gear, using acoustic deterrents to protect marine life, employing local crew, and upgrading vessels for improved crew safety and welfare.

In total, almost 8,660 tonnes of quota will be distributed, including 535 tonnes of North Sea Cod, 1,162 tonnes of North Sea Saithe, and 213 tonnes of Western Skates and Rays. A proportion of these allocations - such as 165.5 tonnes of Cod and 75 tonnes of Skates and Rays - has been designated specifically for non-sector fishers, supporting smaller-scale and independent operators within the industry.

“I’m delighted to see the expanded Quota Application Mechanism rewarding fishers who demonstrate clear commitments to sustainability," said Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner, in a press release.

"By allocating quota based on environmental, social, and economic criteria, we’re charting a new course for UK fisheries that balances conservation with economic prosperity. It’s a vital step towards building a sustainable and profitable fishing industry, as part of our Plan for Change," Zeichner added.

The new approach has received positive feedback from industry representatives, including Dale Rodmell, Chief Executive of the Eastern England Fish Producers Organisation Ltd., who said the new approach to quota allocation "recognises the efforts we are making to realise environmental, social and economic benefits from under-utilised and additional quota resulting from the Trade and Cooperation Agreement.”

For smaller operators, the impact is particularly significant. “It’s really something to help diversify and enables us to free up more options and rest areas which are tight for quota, helping us to fish sustainably," said Paul Stone, Director of Stone Marine Services (South West) Ltd. "It’s been life-changing to the company; it makes life easier for the crew and the fish quality is better. It’s nice to be recognised. As a small private company, it means a heck of a lot."

“Being awarded this quota will make a massive difference. It will keep us fishing all year and the crew busy. It gives other grounds a rest and makes everything financially viable," added Shaun Hayter, Director of Bubba Shrimp Ltd. "It’s a massive opportunity and seems like a step in the right direction."

The quota has been drawn from England’s additional allocation and anticipated underutilised "non-sectoral" quota, fishing quota that is allocated to individual vessels that are not members of a Producer Organisation.

Conditions for receiving extra quota outlined by Defra include adopting remote electronic monitoring; participating in scientific studies; adopting fuel-saving and low-impact fishing technologies; supporting local employment, apprenticeships, and safety improvements; and promoting domestic processing and landings into UK ports.

"This trial represents a significant shift from standard quota allocation methods, introducing a criteria-based approach that aims to enhance sustainable fisheries management by considering broader environmental outcomes alongside the social and economic interests of fishing communities," Defra said.

"Lessons from this trial will shape how fishing quotas are allocated in the future, helping protect fish stocks and support fishing communities for the long-term," it added.