Marine
Launching MeCCAM: A Pioneering EU Project to Mitigate and Adapt European Fisheries to Climate Change
June 13, 2025 by Marine Directorate Communications No Comments | Category Climate Change, Fisheries, Marine Environment, MeCCAM (Measures for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation in European Fisheries)
May 1st marked the official launch of MeCCAM (Measures for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation in European Fisheries) which the Scottish Governments Marine Directorate are collaborating in.
MeCCAM is a pioneering four-year project aimed at equipping the European fisheries sector with innovative, science-based solutions to adapt and mitigate climate change. Coordinated by Sjókovin in the Faroe Islands, the project brings together 16 partners from 9 European countries. The project is funded by Horizon Europe with a total budget of EUR 4.5 million.
Our partners spent three days in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, launching the project, planning upcoming activities and discussing the implementation of MeCCAM. The kick-off set the scene for strong collaboration and synergies across the consortium. The project will deliver outcomes in the following key areas:
Sustainable Fisheries for a Changing Climate
MeCCAM will advance innovative fishing gears and decision support tools that help reduce environmental impact, improve fuel efficiency, and optimise fishing strategies, whilst ensuring economic viability. A mobile app for catch registration will enable fishers to respond in real-time to changes in species distribution caused by warming waters.
Science-Driven Tools for Smarter Decisions
Digital innovation is key in MeCCAM. The project will evaluate an environmental impact assessment software and deliver data-driven tools and best practices to support climate-resilient decision-making throughout the fisheries value chain.
Collaboration for Lasting Impact
Bringing together industry stakeholders, scientists, and policymakers, MeCCAM will foster cross-sector collaboration to ensure that its results are both practical and impactful. Training materials and policy briefs will support the integration of climate adaptation and mitigation strategies into long-term fisheries management.
Six Case Studies Across Europe
MeCCAM solutions will be implemented and demonstrated in six regional case studies that have been strategically selected to reflect the variety of challenges faced by European fisheries—from industrial pelagic and demersal operations to small-scale fisheries. Each Case Study will test the project’s tools and solutions, ensuring relevance and applicability across the European fisheries sector.
“The Scottish Government’s Marine Directorate are delighted to be involved in this innovative and exciting project to future proof Scotland’s fisheries and coastal communities whilst ensuring the long term sustainability of our stocks.”
MeCCAM is funded by the European Union under Grant Agreement N° 101181571. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or REA. Neither the European Union nor REA can be held responsible for them.
With climate change posing increasing risks to marine ecosystems and coastal communities, MeCCAM is a timely and vital step toward securing a sustainable future for European fisheries.
RSS
Email
Leave a comment