EU-Funded Projects Aim to Reduce Dolphin Bycatch with Innovative Acoustic and AI Technologies

Accidental capture of dolphins in fishing gear poses a significant threat to their populations, impacting biodiversity and the livelihoods of fishermen. The EU is funding three projects to mitigate this issue using innovative technologies. The DolphinFree project in the Bay of Biscay, home to approximately 200,000 dolphins, equips fishing gear with acoustic signals that deter dolphins, showing promising initial results. The Marine Beacon project in Brittany uses AI and underwater cameras to identify and sort catches in real-time, aiming to reduce bycatch. In Italy, acoustic mooring posts are being tested to scare dolphins away from fishing nets, preventing entanglement. These projects, if successful, could be implemented across EU waters, promoting sustainable fishing practices and protecting marine life.