New Zealand backs away from deep-sea trawling restrictions.

The reefs at Separation Point in New Zealand's northwest South Island were once home to a thriving marine life due to the presence of bryozoans, tiny marine invertebrates that build large, branching colonies. This led to the creation of the world's first bryozoan-based fishing exclusion area in 1980, which spanned 146 square kilometers. However, over time, sediment runoff from land has significantly damaged the reefs. In recent years, the New Zealand government has been advocating for continued bottom trawling in the South Pacific Ocean, contradicting its previous stance on marine conservation and siding with the destructive bottom trawling industry. Environmental groups continue to push for increased ocean protection for vulnerable habitats.

January 29, 2024
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