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

On the coast of Cádiz, in southern Spain, the producer organisation OPP72 helps small-scale fishermen secure fair markets and protect their future. Founded in 2010, this organisation brings together some 70 producers and 59 vessels from the ports of Conil, La Atunara and Rota. As a producer organisation officially recognised by EU legislation, OPP72 benefits from EU support, particularly through production and marketing plans, to protect both their livelihoods and marine resources.

OPP72 gives small-scale fishermen a collective voice and presence in national and EU-level debates, where they are often under-represented 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, and scientists classified them as ‘stocks with limited data’. If you don’t know the status of your resource, how can you manage it sustainably? 

To address this problem, OPP72 took the initiative to conduct its own research on fish stocks and surrounding ecosystems. The results formed the basis for action plans aimed at improving the sustainability and management of the local marine environment. 

From the ocean to the plate: enhancing the value of local fisheries

To bring consumers closer to the origin of their seafood, OPP72 launched a certification programme called “Pescado de Conil” (Fish from Conil). Each fish caught by its members receives a yellow label with a QR code that provides information about the species, the boat that caught it, the fishing area and even recipe ideas. This transparency builds trust and rewards local, sustainable fishing practices.  

The organisation is currently working on an innovative traceability system for locally harvested clams, which uses laser technology to engrave a unique code on each clam. This is a pioneering initiative that is generating a lot of interest in the community. 

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

Raising awareness and inspiring the next generation

Education and awareness are fundamental pillars of OPP72’s work. They organise annual campaigns with local restaurants, highlighting a different species each year. They also collaborate with schools through initiatives such asChef Marinero, a cooking competition for children, and distribute educational materials, including a documentary featuring  ‘SuperMar’, an animated seahorse that helps children learn about marine life and fishing.

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

A commitment to the environment 

Environmental protection is central to OPP72’s mission. One notable initiative is its 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 the fishermen themselves being the most committed guardians of the sea.

Making a difference with EU support

OPP72’s work demonstrates what artisanal fishers can achieve when they organise themselves and receive adequate support. With the help of the European Union, they have been able to invest in marketing, innovation and community outreach.

“The producer organisation is driving hope for a coastal fishery in need of institutional support,” says Nicolás Fernández Muñoz, director of the PO.

OPP72 is creating new avenues for sustainable fishing, stronger markets and a closer connection between producers, consumers and the environment. In doing so, it is not only protecting the future of artisanal coastal fishing in Cádiz, but also helping to forge a more resilient and responsible fishing sector across Europe.

More information: European Commission.