West of Scotland

Case study lead:​ Heriot Watt University

List of CS partners: ​Marine freshwater and research institution, Brim

External collaboration: Scottish government, Marine directorate and Fisheries Innovation and sustainability

West of Scotland:

Wide range of habitats:

  • Wide range of habitats​
  • Sand, mud, reefs, rock​
  • Depth from 250m to 2,500 + m​
  • All fisheries on shelf​
  • Fjords (lochs) and islands (whiskey)​

North Atlantic, Slope & Norwegian currents:

  • Warm currents​
  • Maintain temperate climate
  • AMOC?

    Low population density near coast:
  • except in south (Glasgow / Belfast)

Key features and challenges​

  • Cod and whiting stocks in poor shape​
  • Discards of juvenile fish by Nephrops fishery​
  • Seal predation​
  • Landings obligation

Main activities and solutions​

Smartrawl​

  • Testing on commercial vessels

Eco Guide / DISPLACE​

  • More selective​
  • Less impact on seabed​
  • Reduce carbon footprint