"Uncovering the Hidden Impact: Trawling's Role in Marine Carbon Emissions"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Phys.org
A new study reveals that bottom trawling, a fishing method that involves dragging heavy nets across the ocean floor, is a significant and previously unaccounted for source of atmospheric carbon emissions. The study finds that 55%–60% of the carbon dioxide produced underwater by bottom trawling eventually enters the atmosphere within nine years, contributing to global warming. The annual carbon emissions from bottom trawling are estimated to double the emissions from the entire global fishing fleet. The research emphasizes the need to account for and address these significant carbon emissions in climate action plans and highlights the immediate benefits of reducing bottom trawling emissions.