The Sustainable Eel Group was founded in 2010 and in the years since it has consistently delivered on its promise to speak up for the vulnerable European eel. In a polarised political climate where ‘stop all fishing’ campaigners were coming into conflict with advocates for maintaining the status quo, it has provided an authoritative voice on a range of issues, considering the intersections between the social, commercial, and environmental drivers of the debate.

This year has been marked by a series of distinct achievements which reflect the incredible scope of initiatives currently underway. Some of these have been modest, with appearances at conferences and symposia presenting opportunities for expanding our multi-disciplinary network and communicating our values to new audiences. Others have been more significant, paving the way for innovative approaches to conservation at micro- and macroscopic levels.

Through the refinement of criteria for responsible management, 2024’s revised SEG Standard has set a new benchmark for sustainability in the commercial sector. Informed by consultations with over 900 stakeholders across three major development phases, Version 7 has brought clarity and rigour to fisheries management, going some distance towards closing the ‘grey area’ which allowed illegal trades to flourish. With 80% of the industry aligned with the Standard, and more than 120 million glass eels passing through the system this year, there are indications consumer confidence is being steadily rebuilt. As enforcement agencies work to combat increasingly sophisticated wildlife trafficking practices, SEG’s work continues to expose illicit trade networks posing as legitimate fish and seafood businesses. It differentiates ethical and unethical fishing techniques, thereby empowering the market to uphold responsible practices.

Policy developments have also represented significant achievements in 2024, with SEG’s recommendations shaping European Union fisheries management strategies. With a view to Eel Deal 2030, SEG has provided bold and pragmatic proposals to support the implementation of existing regulations. These efforts were essential terms of reference for the European Council of Ministers decision this year, which strengthened member state support for existing legislation whilst rejecting calls for a blanket fishing ban. By ensuring that certificate holders can continue to contribute through conservation fishing and data collection, SEG has cemented its balanced, actionable approach to eel recovery within the framework of the decade-long action plan.

The social agenda, spearheaded by the Somerset Eel Recovery Project, has been one of the most significant achievements of the year. Attracting significant media coverage from respected media outlets such as the BBC, The Telegraph, and CNN, SERP has united communities through a diverse blend of education, outreach, and conservation initiatives. Some of the highlights to date include the ‘Eels in the Classroom’ programme, which engaged students in 59 classrooms simultaneously, and innovative projects like environmental DNA monitoring, which have sparked widespread enthusiasm for eel protection. Building on this success, SEG is committed to redeploying SERP’s community-based model, equipping community leaders across Europe with tools and training through the Eel Academy. These initiatives will ensure that local heritage and knowledge remain at the heart of the European eel’s recovery journey.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to mark SEG’s fifteenth anniversary with a celebration of all that we have achieved and to continue building on the success of ongoing conservation programmes. Whilst challenges remain, we are optimistic about the future, thanks to the collective efforts of our partners, stakeholders, and communities. We are committed to further advancing sustainable eel management practices, deepening our engagement with local communities, and ensuring that our conservation work has a lasting impact on both eel populations and the industries which depend on them. Together, we will continue to protect and speak up for the European eel, securing a healthier future for generations to come.