A new report by AZTI highlights the opportunities that artificial intelligence (AI) offers to improve the sustainability of fisheries, drive the digitalisation of the fleet and reduce its environmental impact.
AZTI
The Basque technology center AZTI has released a report addressing how new technologies serve as a key tool in achieving a more sustainable and efficient fishing sector.
With the help of artificial intelligence (AI), AZTI argues that fishing will be able to tackle the effects of climate change, rising fuel prices, changing consumer patterns, and strict regulations.
This tool will aid in the digital transformation of the European fishing fleet by improving operational efficiency and optimizing the control and traceability of catches.
In addition, Gorka Gabiña, coordinator of Sustainable Fishing Technologies at AZTI, warns that depending on the type of vessel, fishing gear, or fishing area, one solution or another is required: "From there, we can implement adapted strategies that combine solutions such as optimizing fuel consumption, the use of new materials in vessels, alternative energies, and improvements in operational efficiency."
In its report, AZTI highlights a series of predictive algorithms specifically designed for key species in the Bay of Biscay pelagic fleet, such as anchovy and tuna, which identify areas with the highest probability of catch and, therefore, help reduce fuel consumption and vessel emissions.
Moreover, machine vision automatically identifies, classifies, and counts catches on board vessels, making marine resources management more efficient and promoting responsible and sustainable exploitation of fish stocks.
Another challenge mentioned in the report is the bycatch of juvenile fish, sharks, sea turtles, birds, and cetaceans, which causes environmental, economic, and legal consequences. To address this, AZTI proposes electronic monitoring through video cameras, sensors, GPS, and data analysis software to provide real-time information on catches.
Finally, Gabiña reminds us to make use of circular economy strategies to reduce marine litter: "The recovery of discarded fishing gear and the use of biodegradable or innovative materials in fishing designs are examples of how sustainability can be combined with innovation. Although adequate infrastructure is still needed to implement large-scale marine waste collection and management systems, promoting these solutions can significantly improve the health of the marine environment and create new economic opportunities.
