The seas that surround us define Britain: an island nation. As well as being an important place for nature, the sea also provides healthy food to a growing population. Most boats are independently owned and run by small crews, making an important contribution to fragile, rural economies with one fisher at sea supporting 4-7 jobs ashore. 5280 boats fish the seas around Britain and almost all use fossil fuels to power their engines, releasing hundreds of tons of greenhouse gases every year. A feasibility study has shown that many boats could adapt to hybrid or fully-electric propulsion systems, however at a higher up-front investment cost than replacing and end of life internal combustion engine like-for-like. This piece of video journalism was commissioned to illustrate the assistance fishers require to modernise their vessels, help reduce marine and air pollution and preserve the small-scale fishing fleet as part of our national heritage.
Add to playlist