Uniting small-scale fishers to achieve fair fisheries, healthy seas and vibrant communities.
We are the united voice of the Low Impact Fishers of Europe
Small-Scale fishers as part of the solution for sustainability The potential of small-scale fishers to contribute to environmental, social and economic sustainability in European coastal fisheries is an opportunity missed. If given the attention they deserve by policy makers, and given greater opportunities in European seas, the small-scale fishing fleet could be a game changer.
The Low Impact Fishers of Europe (LIFE) is a response to the overfished, stock depleted, and unfair situation in European seas.
Partnerships with small-scale fishers must be grounded in respect for their way of life and culture — and that starts with adhering to the Rules of Conduct.
Low impact fishers of Europe
There is strength in unity, and the strength of LIFE is that it can unite its members to develop common solutions to common problems, calling on the generational skills, talent and experience of thousands of fishers to contribute to the sustainable development of the sector.
LIFE works at EU level, at regional sea-basin level (Baltic and North Sea, North and South Atlantic and Mediterranean and Black Sea), and at the water-face by supporting our members on the ground. LIFE engages directly with EU institutions, regional fisheries management bodies (GFCM, ICCAT), Regional Advisory Committees and national governments.
Our approach
LIFE aims to transform the system by supporting small-scale fishers to become actors of change in their own right – to strengthen their capabilities to participate in the management of their fishing areas, to secure fair access to fishery resources and to obtain a fair price for their catch.
Become a member
By joining LIFE you can become part of our community, sharing our common values, contributing to our goals, and cooperating to meet the challenges of ensuring a better future for the sector.
Support us
LIFE’s work depends on grants and on philanthropic donations from foundations and individuals.
There are many ways in which you too can support small-scale low impact fishing and help us to make a difference.
English 
Croatian 
Dutch 
French 
German 
Greek 
Italian 
Polish 
Romanian 
Spanish 
Maltese 
