Seabed Trawling on the High Seas: Legislating Environmentally Damaging Fishing Techniques Beyond National Jurisdiction

Abstract

This paper explores international law which could protect marine life on the High Seas from environmentally damaging fishing techniques, particularly that of seabed trawling which has become a big contributor to CO2 emissions in addition to marine habitat destruction. It compares the markedly rapid international response to driftnet fishing to the current problem of seabed trawling, while analyzing UNCLOS legislation on environmental degradation on the High Seas. Furthermore, this paper analyses the sway and power of Regional Fisheries Management Organisation's in responding to environmentally damaging fishing techniques within their jurisdiction. Finally the BBNJ treaty, not yet in force, is analysed to determine how it will impact protections for marine life from environmentally damaging fishing practices on the High Seas.