In the course of this project Ecologic identifies, documents and evaluates the deficits of national and international research projects dealing with the integration of environmental considerations into fishing. The outcoming study serves to support the preparation of the 5th International North Sea Conservation Conference.

During the 4th International North Sea Conservation Conference (INK) in Esbjerg in 1995, as well as at the interim ministerial conference regarding the integration of environmental considerations into fishing (IMM Bergen 1997), the prime ministers of the North Sea states decided to further promote and/or initiate research in the areas of fishing gear selectivity, reduction of mortality rates of birds, mammals and benthic organisms, discards, state of fish stocks, effects of hazardous substances, potentials of undisturbed areas, quantification regarding the effects of industrial fishing and the environmental and economic implications as well as the feasibility of a ban on discards. The study prepared by Ecologic identifies, documents and evaluates the deficits of national and international research projects dealing with the above topics. An expert meeting is organised as part of the project. On the basis of this report and the meeting, research collaborations will to be promoted and national measures developed to ensure the implementation of the resolutions passed at the 4. INK and the IMM. In preparation for the 5th International North Sea Conservation Conference, a status report is delivered on the research being done on the topics listed above.