Increasing concerns about the incidental by-catch of non-targeted species including seabirds in various fisheries around the world have inspired international efforts to help address this environmental issue.

Fishing industry regulations and voluntary codes of practice have been implemented in many countries along with the establishment of international alliances such as the Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP).

In 1997 the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) adopted a voluntary International Plan of Action for reducing incidental catch of seabirds in longline fisheries.

Find more information about the International Plan of Action visit the FAO website or download the International Plan of Action/Seabirds (PDF).

New Zealand's National Plan of Action was implemented in 2004 to help reduce seabird injuries and deaths during commercial fishing operations. The NPOA establishes agreed codes of practice in key fisheries impacting on seabirds.

National Plan of Action fact sheet (Department of Conservation fact sheet)

Consultation regarding managing fishing-related seabird by-catch

In late November 2007 the Government announced proposed seabird death limits in New Zealand fisheries as part of its commitment to sustainability.

The Government held a public consultation on processes to achieve its National Plan of Action goals across all New Zealand’s fisheries.  Submissions were due in March 2008. 

To learn about the consultation process and also to view current regulations visit the Ministry of Fisheries website.

Countries that implement the International Plan of Action are required to conduct an assessment of their fisheries to determine if they have a problem with accidental capture of seabirds.

If there is a problem they should develop and implement a National Plan of Action to help avoid seabird by-catch. Where appropriate governments and organisations should also work collaboratively with their counterparts around the world.