Denmark implements marine protections in Skagerrak and North Sea

Denmark is implementing new measures to protect marine ecosystems in the North Sea and Skagerrak. A temporary fishing ban has been established in a specific area of the Danish Skagerrak from September 27 to October 17, 2026. This emergency regulation follows findings by the Environmental Protection Agency that levels of juvenile cod, whiting, pollack, and saithe exceeded permitted limits. While most fishing is prohibited, certain methods such as drift nets and specific gear for herring and mackerel remain permitted.

In a separate but related environmental effort, a proposal to ban bottom trawling near five Natura 2000 reef structures in the North Sea, including ‘Gule Rev’, has moved forward. Following negotiations involving Belgium, the regional North Sea cooperation approved the Danish proposal on September 24. The ban aims to protect vulnerable habitats like dead man's fingers coral and sea anemones from damage caused by heavy metal beam trawls. The proposal has been submitted to the European Commission for final approval, a process expected to take six to nine months.