From conflict to coexistence: Exploring multi-use between offshore wind and small-scale fisheries in the context of the Ocean Act

Offshore wind energy plays a critical role for the EU to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 and tackle the climate crisis. At the same time, European waters are already overcrowded and under significant pressure, requiring urgent protection and restoration measures.

In this context, multi-use (i.e. the combination of multiple activities at sea) is gaining attention as a potential solution to reduce spatial conflicts, particularly in relation to offshore wind, which is expected to expand in the coming years. However, real life examples of multi-use remain limited and, given the environmental state of European waters, it can only hold potential if it helps to reduce the overall pressure on marine ecosystems.

For small-scale fisheries (SSF), their co-location with offshore wind could help to free-up space for nature at sea and provide income opportunities for low-impact sectors, while safeguarding their critical role in European coastal communities.

This panel discussion, co-organised by Coalition Clean Baltic and Seas At Risk and hosted by Isabella Lövin MEP (Greens/EFA Group) will explore the opportunities, challenges, and regulatory pathways for sustainable multi-use in European waters, in the context of the Ocean Act.

Date: 10 December

Time: 15:00-17:00 CET

Location: European Parliament, Room SPINELLI 4F384 | Rue Wiertz 60, 1047 Bruxelles, Belgium

Hosted and co-organised by Isabella Lövin MEP (Greens/EFA Group)

In-person registration is now closed! Register to watch online here by Monday 8 December EOB (the viewing link will be sent to registrants on Tuesday 9 December).