BLOOM Association – Protecting the Ocean from Destructive Fishing

Founded in 2005 by ocean conservation advocate Claire Nouvian, BLOOM is an independent French nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting marine ecosystems from destructive industrial fishing and unsustainable exploitation. Based in Paris, BLOOM combines scientific research, public campaigns, legal action and political advocacy to defend marine biodiversity, particularly vulnerable deep-sea ecosystems.

Ending Destructive Bottom Trawling
One of BLOOM's central missions is to stop destructive bottom trawling, a fishing method that drags heavy equipment across the seabed, damaging marine habitats and threatening biodiversity. BLOOM investigates industrial fishing activities and campaigns for stronger restrictions on destructive fishing gear, especially inside marine protected areas. The organization challenges the practice of designating ocean areas as protected while continuing to allow damaging industrial activities within their boundaries.

Protecting the Deep Sea
Deep-sea ecosystems are home to extraordinary species and fragile habitats that may take decades or centuries to recover from disturbance. BLOOM has played an important role in advocating for restrictions on deep-sea bottom trawling in European waters. Its campaigns helped build political support for the European Union's ban on bottom trawling below 800 metres, which entered into force in 2017.

Investigating Industrial Fishing
BLOOM conducts independent investigations into industrial fishing fleets, fishing subsidies and the environmental impacts of European fisheries policies. Through scientific reports and public campaigns, the organization exposes practices that threaten marine ecosystems and undermine small-scale, low-impact fishing communities.

Strengthening Marine Protected Areas
BLOOM advocates for genuine marine protection, including the exclusion of destructive fishing practices from protected areas. The organization works with scientists, environmental groups and coastal communities to promote effective conservation policies and challenge inadequate regulations.

Defending Sustainable Fisheries
BLOOM campaigns for a transition away from destructive industrial fishing toward more environmentally responsible fisheries. Its work includes investigating public subsidies that support harmful fishing activities and advocating for policies that protect both marine ecosystems and small-scale fishing communities.

Science, Education and Public Engagement
BLOOM uses scientific evidence, creative communication and public mobilization to make complex marine conservation issues accessible. Its campaigns encourage citizens to understand how fishing practices affect marine biodiversity and to demand stronger ocean protection. By combining independent research, political advocacy and legal action, BLOOM works to transform fisheries policies and secure lasting protection for marine life. Its mission is to restore healthy, resilient oceans where biodiversity can recover and future generations can benefit from thriving marine ecosystems.

Photo Credits by: ©BLOOM Association
https://www.bloomassociation.org/en/