Glossary introduction
The whole field of fisheries is so beset with jargon and
acronyms that for anyone wishing to understand the issue, it can be
a nightmare. Add to that increasing calls to protect marine
wildlife, which has led to new terminology, particularly relating
to the Habitats and Species Directive.
At a time when the European Commission is pushing for
consideration of the environment alongside all activities (through
a process called integration), it is important to ensure that all
those involved with fisheries and the environment have a common
understanding of terms. This is why this glossary of terms for
marine nature conservation and fisheries was commissioned. There
has been wide consultation with a cross-section of individuals over
the definition of terms, which in itself helped increase common
understanding. It is of paramount importance that integration of
fisheries and the environment occurs in practice, at the grass
roots level and not just in principle. We hope that this
glossary will help to achieve such an aim.
A number of communications from the European Union stress the
importance of disseminating scientific information in a way that is
easily understood. The EC Biodiversity Strategy [COM(1998)42] calls
on the Community to develop programmes for public information,
education and awareness raising on conservation and sustainable use
of biodiversity. This should also apply to the Commission's action
plan for biodiversity in fisheries. A similar commitment applies in
relation to information on the impact of fisheries on marine
ecosystems.