A survey of 1,005 Scottish adults revealed 95.7% of those surveyed believe retaining control over UK fisheries is crucial. The Opinions Matters survey was commissioned by the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF).
Additionally, 91% see fishing as vital to the UK economy, and 89.7% equate the importance of UK-produced food with energy. The poll highlights that 93.3% of Scots prioritise UK fishing fleets in domestic waters, and 87.5% value fisheries as a source of healthy dietary protein. These findings arise amid growing offshore renewable projects threatening traditional fishing grounds. The issues will be debated by political figures at an SFF-hosted event in Edinburgh.
Elspeth Macdonald, Chief Executive of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, said: “These opinion poll results vindicate the fishing industry’s contention that covering our seas with giant offshore windfarms without any thought being given to food production is wholly counter-productive.
“Fishing is one of the lowest-carbon forms of food production in existence and displacing the catching sector simply places the burden onto more carbon-intensive alternatives.
“It is clear that renewable energy is needed on a greater scale to combat climate change but home-produced climate-smart food is also part of the solution to how we reach net zero.”
Elspeth Macdonald, CEO of SFF
The Scottish Government’s 2023 decision to shelve plans for fishing bans in 10% of Scottish waters still leaves the industry threatened by additional conservation zones and offshore projects. States the SFF. The SSF state that by 2050, up to 46% of Scottish waters could be lost to fishing, endangering fishing businesses and communities.
Macdonald calls for a balance between energy expansion and preserving the fishing industry, emphasizing public support for maintaining fisheries control. As the election approaches, the SFF urges politicians to protect fishing grounds and sustainable practices, ensuring the industry’s low-carbon footprint and economic significance are considered in future policies.
Opinion Matters surveyed 1,005 Scottish adults between 03-07 June 2024.
To find out more about the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation here.