Identifying environmental hotspots in the life cycle of bottom/demersal trawl fishing gear

Fisheries represent a significant food source. Norway’s marine fisheries accounted for about 3% of the global catch in 2023. This study aims to address critical knowledge gaps in the environmental impact of bottom/demersal (BD) trawl fishing gear for cod fishing. We approach this by integrating insights from material flow analysis (MFA) with adapted life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. Our research focuses on three main questions: How can we integrate previous MFA studies with LCA to reach a further understanding of the environmental impacts associated with BD trawls? What environmental hotspots are associated with plastic use in BD trawls using LCA? And what are the broader environmental concerns with BD trawls beyond plastics? Our investigation reveals that BD trawling equipment is associated with a wide range of potential environmental impacts, in particular due to its contact with the seabed during its use. Our findings reveal a more complex interplay of factors than in most product value chains. A current lack of mature impact characterisation methods for relevant environmental concerns further emphasises the need for more refined models and research. This chapter provides a basis for understanding and mitigating the environmental issues connected with BD trawl fishing gear. The study contributes to the ongoing shift towards more sustainable circular fishing practices.