science & policy

Good, complete science is the foundation for successful fisheries management. At the Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO), we are committed to partnering with credible marine science institutions to advance our collective understanding of single and multi-species fish stock assessments, their distributions, the wider marine ecosystem, and sustainable measures.

The CFPO has forged strong relationships with leading organisations such as the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas). These partnerships enhance research and data collection efforts, benefiting both the fishing industry and the scientific community. By working together, fishermen and scientists can achieve better outcomes for fisheries sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem health.

A notable example of our collaborative work is the Fisheries Science Partnership (FSP). Established in 2003/2004 by the NFFO, Cefas, and Defra, the FSP has improved communication between fishermen and scientists, laying the groundwork for evidence-based fisheries policies.

As a pioneer of the FSP, the CFPO has actively contributed to its success. By opening channels of communication between scientists and the fishing industry, we have supported impactful projects that inform sustainable fisheries management and the conservation of marine resources.