Canary Islands' Protected Waters Under Siege: 'Dynamite Fishing' Devastates Marine Life

Canary Islands Marine Reserves Under Threat: Bottom Trawling Raises Environmental Concerns Canary Islands, Spain – The pristine waters surrounding the Canary Islands, renowned for their biodiversity, are facing a serious threat. A recent COPE podcast interview with Carlos Mallo Molina, winner of the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize (often referred to as the Nobel Prize for environmental work), highlighted the devastating impact of bottom trawling in protected marine areas. Mallo Molina, who works with Innoceana, a marine conservation organization, described the practice as akin to "hunting in forests with dynamite." This graphic comparison perfectly encapsulates the scale of destruction caused by the heavy fishing gear that indiscriminately rakes across the ocean floor, damaging delicate ecosystems and depleting fish stocks. The interview revealed that despite legal protections, bottom trawling continues within these designated reserves. Mallo Molina emphasized the need for stricter enforcement and greater accountability to protect these vital habitats. He stated, "The current regulations are insufficient. We need stronger measures to ensure compliance and prevent further damage to our oceans." The visual elements of the podcast further illustrated the alarming reality: vast nets dragged across the seabed, and the immense quantities of fish caught, highlighting the destructive nature of the practice. The urgent call for action resonates with the growing global awareness of ocean conservation, making this a story of considerable interest to a wide audience.