The Sinking of Vessels Involved IN IUU Fishing Through the Lens of Environmental Perspectives

Abstract

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing poses a significant challenge for coastal states that, despite various international instruments, still struggle to enforce the sovereign rights established by UNCLOS over fish stocks within their Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ). To implement effectively deterrent measures some coastal states sink fishing vessels identified as engaging in IUU fishing within their EEZs. However, the sinking of these vessels involves considerations that go beyond the intended deterrent effect. It reflects a deeply ingrained perception that seas and the ocean can be treated as dumping grounds, neglecting any in-depth analysis of the impacts of such choices. This study aimed to evaluate the main environmental impacts of this practice, highlighting how significant vessel sinking is for marine pollution. To this aim, an instance of vessel sinking was characterized, and an environmental assessment of its main impacts was conducted using an adapted Leopold matrix. Additionally, a potential fine was estimated for the most significative impact identified. The conclusion is that the environmental impact of the sinking practice is not negligible and, due to potential cumulative effects, a global effort to regulate or ban this practice is necessary. Otherwise, the international community risks once again imposing regulations only after the environmental damage caused by this activity has already resulted in significant detrimental effects on humanity.