Court ruling tightens environmental requirements for Danish offshore fish farming

A Danish court has upheld stricter environmental assessments for offshore fish farms, potentially forcing existing operations to meet tougher standards or close, DR reports.

The Eastern High Court ruled that the Environmental and Food Appeals Board was justified in revoking a permit for a fish farm off Lolland, citing insufficient environmental safeguards. The board had demanded a new, comprehensive habitat assessment before approving operations.

Maria Reumert Gjerding, president of the Danish Society for Nature Conservation, called the decision a victory for marine protection. “We’re thrilled because the ruling confirms that permits can only be granted if it’s thoroughly documented that operations won’t harm nature—especially in already stressed marine areas,” she said.

Denmark currently has 19 offshore fish farms, several located in Natura 2000 protected zones. Gjerding expects some may now face closure if they cannot prove compliance with stricter environmental rules.

Industry group Danish Aquaculture criticized the ruling, warning it could set a precedent affecting other sectors. Director René Christensen argued that if upheld, the decision might require habitat assessments for existing wind farms and other coastal industries. The group is considering an appeal.

“We’ll review the ruling carefully before deciding next steps, but I expect we’ll challenge it,” Christensen said.

The case centers on concerns over fish farm discharges, including medicine residues, concentrated fish waste, and chemical treatments for nets, which critics argue threaten fragile marine ecosystems.