As shown in this investigation by Essere Animali, the most critical aspects of welfare in the transport of aquatic animals are:
- Starvation periods before transport;
- Rough handling and loading procedures;
- Poor water quality during transport.
This year, we have a crucial opportunity to ensure aquatic animals are protected under EU transport legislation, which is currently being debated in the European Parliament. Here are five essential changes we’re asking for:
1. Make the rules enforceable
Right now, the proposed rules detail provisions for aquatic animals in an Annex, but they remain vague and a deadline is not specified for their enforcement. We’re calling on the EU to include a specific timeline to ensure these provisions are enforced in a timely manner, and adapted to new scientific findings when available.
2. Set species-specific standards
Aquatic animals need the right water conditions to stay healthy, including proper oxygen levels, temperature, and handling. Transport laws should include species-specific requirements so farmed fish but also wild caught cephalopods and crustaceans do not suffer during long journeys.
3. Include ornamental aquatic animals
Animals like fish, shrimps and rare species that live in home aquariums also face stress and high death rates during transport. They should be covered by the new rules, just like animals transported for food.
4. Include fish and crustaceans delivered to restaurants
Some aquatic animals are directly transported live to food businesses, but these journeys are excluded from the current proposal. These animals deserve the same level of care.
5. Apply rules to shorter journeys
Even short trips (under 50 km) can cause stress and harm to aquatic animals, especially young ones being moved between farm sites. The new rules should cover all transport, no matter the distance.
The draft transport proposal is currently with the European Parliament’s fisheries committee, who will vote on the draft opinion on 17 March 2025.
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