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UK Government Launches Blue Shield Programme to Tackle Illegal Fishing in British Indian Ocean Territory

The UK Government has announced a new initiative aimed at tackling the scourge of illegal fishing and unlawful marine activities in the British Overseas Territories. The first territory to join the programme is Bermuda.

What is the Blue Shield Programme?

The Blue Shield Programme is a comprehensive toolset designed to defend oceans against illegal fishing and other damaging activities. It provides innovative technology and surveillance techniques to help UK Overseas Territories strengthen management and enforcement of their waters.

Key Features of the Blue Shield Programme

  • Innovative technology and surveillance techniques, such as autonomous drone technology, passive acoustic units, and satellite surveillance data
  • Specialist training for on-island staff to build local capacity
  • Support for territories in combating illegal fishing and managing vessel activity and marine development projects

Why is the Blue Shield Programme Important?

“It is estimated that a third of global fish stocks are overfished, with many species threatened by habitat destruction, pollution and climate change,” said Lord Zac Goldsmith, Minister for the Environment. “The new Blue Shield Programme will help UK Overseas Territories protect their oceans against illegal fishing and other damaging activities.”

Goals and Ambitions

The programme is part of the UK Government’s Blue Belt Programme, which protects over 4 million square kilometers of ocean around the Overseas Territories. The initiative aims to identify and analyze activities that may impact the health and sustainability of marine environments in the territories.

First Territory to Join the Programme

Bermuda has become the first Overseas Territory to join the Blue Shield Programme. The programme will provide valuable support in combating illegal fishing and managing vessel activity and marine development projects. The territory’s existing protected areas management approach will be underpinned by the programme’s expertise and resources.

“I am very excited for Bermuda to be participating in the Blue Shield Programme,” said Honourable Walter Roban, Deputy Premier and Minister of Home Affairs, Bermuda. “We look forward to working closely with the UK Government and other partners to protect our oceans and promote sustainable fishing practices.”

Significance and Impact

The Blue Shield Programme is a significant step towards achieving the UK’s ambition of protecting 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. The initiative has been welcomed by environmental groups and marine conservation organizations, who see it as an important contribution to tackling the global challenges of ocean protection.

Contact Information

For more information about the Blue Shield Programme, please contact: