Building a sustainable future for small-scale coastal fishers in southern Spain

Along the coast of Cádiz in southern Spain, producer organisation OPP72 is helping small-scale fishers secure fair markets and protect their future. Established in 2010, this organisation brings together around 70 producers and 59 vessels from the ports of Conil, La Atunara, and Rota. As an officially recognised producer organisation under EU law, OPP72 benefits from EU support, particularly through production and marketing plans, to protect both livelihoods and marine resources.

OPP72 gives small-scale fishers a collective voice and presence in national and EU-level discussions, where they are often underrepresented compared to larger fleets.

Science-based sustainability

Science and local expertise are central to OPP72's approach. Initially, many local species were not well studied, classified by scientists as 'data-limited stocks'. If you don't know the state of your resource, how can you manage it sustainably?

To address this issue, OPP72 took the initiative to conduct its own research into fish stocks and surrounding ecosystems. The results informed action plans to improve sustainability and stewardship of the local marine environment.

From ocean to plate: enhancing the value of local catch

To bring consumers closer to the origin of their seafood, OPP72 launched a certification scheme called 'Pescado de Conil.' Every fish caught by members receives a yellow QR-code tag, providing information on the species, the vessel that caught it, the fishing area, and even recipe ideas. This transparency builds trust and rewards local, sustainable fishing practices.

The organisation is now working on an innovative traceability system for locally harvested clams, using laser technology to engrave each clam with a unique code. It is a first-of-its-kind initiative that is generating strong interest in the community.

In addition, OPP72 developed a digital auction platform to modernise sales, enabling fishers to reach more buyers and secure fair prices. They also launched an online shop, allowing consumers to order fresh, local seafood straight from their homes.

Raising awareness and inspiring the next generations

Education and awareness-raising are key pillars of OPP72's work. They run annual campaigns with local restaurants, spotlighting a different species each year. They also engage with schools through initiatives like Chef Marinero, a cooking competition for children, and distribute educational materials including a documentary featuring 'SuperMar', an animated seahorse helping children learn about marine life and fishing.

These efforts promote responsible consumption and support generational renewal within the fishing sector.

A commitment to the environment

Environmental protection is central to OPP72's mission. A standout initiative is their local coral restoration project, where corals accidentally caught during fishing are carefully restored to health and then returned to the sea.

This highlights OPP72's belief that sustainability and productivity go hand in hand, with fishers themselves being the most committed guardians of the sea.

Making a difference with EU support

OPP72's work shows what small-scale fishers can achieve when they organise themselves and receive the right support. With help from the European Union, they have been able to invest in marketing, innovation, and community outreach.

"The producer organisation drives the hope for a coastal fishery in need of institutional support", says Nicolas Fernández Muñoz, director of the PO.

OPP72 is creating new pathways for sustainable fishing, stronger markets, and a deeper connection between producers, consumers, and the environment. In doing so, they are not only protecting the future of small-scale coastal fishing in Cádiz-they're also helping shape a more resilient and responsible fishing sector across Europe.

More information

Website: Pescado de Conil

EU measures for seafood markets and producer organisations

EU action for small-scale fisheries

Guidelines to help EU countries support small-scale fishers and enhance transparency in the allocation of fishing opportunities