Recent research published in the Journal of Eta Maritime Science has shed light on the significant impact that purse seine fishing vessels have on air pollution in the Black Sea. Conducted by Eralp Özkaya from the Directorate General of Coastal Safety, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure in İstanbul, Türkiye, the study utilized a bottom-up methodology to calculate exhaust emissions from these fishing vessels.
The research focused on 18 Turkish-flagged purse seiners, each measuring 20 meters or longer, operating in the Black Sea during the 2017-2018 fishing season. By categorizing the vessels into three groups based on their length, the study calculated emissions under various operational conditions, including when the vessels were at port, navigating, and actively fishing. The findings revealed that these vessels collectively emitted around 260,000 tons of pollutants annually in the Black Sea and approximately 440,000 tons across Türkiye.
Özkaya emphasized the significance of the study, stating, “This research presents novelty and addresses an important gap in the existing literature.” The study not only highlights the environmental challenges posed by fishing vessels but also underscores the effectiveness of the Emission Control Area (ECA) regulations in mitigating maritime emissions.
For the commercial sector, these findings could have far-reaching implications. Fishing companies may need to reassess their operational practices to comply with stricter emission standards, which could lead to increased costs. However, this also presents an opportunity for innovation in cleaner technologies and practices within the industry. Companies that invest in more efficient vessels or alternative energy sources may gain a competitive edge as regulatory pressures mount.
Moreover, the research serves as a critical resource for policymakers and environmental agencies, providing a clearer picture of the emissions landscape in the Black Sea region. As the fishing industry grapples with the dual challenges of sustainability and compliance, the insights from this study could inform future regulations and initiatives aimed at reducing air pollution from maritime activities.
As the maritime sector continues to evolve, the findings of this study will be essential for navigating the balance between economic activity and environmental responsibility, paving the way for a more sustainable future in fishing practices.
