FAO Sets First International Guidelines On Deep Sea Fishing

September 4, 2008 11:59 p.m. EST

New York, NY (AHN) - The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has set the first international guidelines that will limit the impact of deep sea fishing on fish species and habitats.

The guidelines announced on Wednesday provides measures to identify and protect vulnerable ecosystems and provide guidance on the sustainable use of marine living resources in deep-sea areas.

It also requires fishing nations to assess the impact of deep sea fishing being undertaken by their fleets and stop the fishing activity if there are adverse impacts.

Few countries have policies and plans on deep sea fishing due to the considerable resources and investment in technology required to undertake related activities on the high seas.