How can discards in European fisheries be mitigated? Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats of potential mitigation methods

A number of solutions, with varying efficiency, have been proposed to mitigate discards. In this paper we review twelve mitigation measures and analyse the strengths and weaknesses, along with opportunities and threats, they might entail. We reflect on which mitigation methods could either support or counteract others with already studied case studies. Guidelines for managers aiming to mitigate discards are introduced and applied in three different case studies to demonstrate the approach. Discarding is highly variable and is influenced by numerous biological, technical and operational factors as well as social and economic drivers. These influences should be carefully considered, as not reflecting this variability in management approaches, may involve risk of failure. Finally, all reforms must be carefully considered within the context of a broader management system. The full management system needs to be thought of coherently to create an incentive framework that motivates fishers to avoid unwanted catches. It is only in this setting that discard mitigation methods may be potentially effective.