With the second generation of FLAGs now up and running, there is a growing number of project examples from the past and the present which can inspire other actions aimed at developing fisheries and aquaculture areas around Europe, be it through economic, environmental or social support and investment. The project descriptions and short stories below give an insight into some of the local projects funded by the FLAGs, while the methods provide helpful examples of effective programme management, ranging from community outreach to FLAG self-assessment.
Environment, Circular economy, Marine litter, Water quality
On Lower Saxony’s North Sea coast, small-scale fishermen team up with an environmental NGO to collect marine waste and look at ways of disposing and recycling plastic components.
Aquaculture, New technology, Diversification, Arts and crafts, Women
A Galician FLAG has supported the creation of Europe’s first commercial coral farm, growing approximately 5 000 corals annually and attracting school trips of children from around the area.
Adding value to fisheries, Business support, Promotion, Arts and crafts, Small-scale and coastal fisheries, Society and culture, Cultural heritage, Women
The net making profession has always been one of the least recognised professions within the fishing sector so several Galician net makers´ associations have brought it into the spotlight by combining dissemination workshops with a new range of products based on their unique know-how.
Environment, Governance, Fisheries resources, Small-scale and coastal fisheries
Grupul de co-gestionare a Lacului Vãttern, susținut de FLAG, ajută părțile interesate locale să ajungă la un consens privind gestionarea sustenabilă a resurselor piscicole ale celui de-al doilea lac ca mărime din Suedia.
Business support, New technology, Marine activities, Climate change, Energy, Small-scale and coastal fisheries
A local fisherman takes the initiative to explore how solar lighting might improve safety and make working hours more flexible at the remote pier where he lands his fish.
Aquaculture, New technology, Environment, Fisheries resources, Integrated coastal management, Cultural heritage
A fisheries cooperative embraces the use of new technology to ensure the sustainability of its native oyster stocks. By adopting spat collectors (“coupelles”) used in France, the Tralee Oyster Fisheries Society has offered a brighter future to its oyster fishers and the local tradition they represent.
Irish FLAGs have supported the development of six Regional Inshore Fisheries Forums (RIFFs) and a National Inshore Fisheries Forum (NIFF) to ensure representation of the small-scale segment of the fleet in regional and national decision making.