Skip to content

Future Cutter "KUNO" to Modernize Coastal Fishery

Future Cutter "KUNO" to Modernize Coastal Fishery

In this picture there are ships on the water at the bottom side of the image and there are...
In this picture there are ships on the water at the bottom side of the image and there are vehicles, trees, poles, aircraft, and buildings in the background area of the image.

Future Cutter "KUNO" to Modernize Coastal Fishery - Future Cutter "KUNO" to Modernize Coastal Fishery

Researchers in East Frisia are working on a new cutter design called Future Cutter North Sea (KUNO). The project aims to make North Sea coastal fishing more sustainable and future-proof. The federal government is backing the initiative with around ten million euros in funding.

Silvia Breher (CDU), Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, handed over the funding notification at Emden/Leer University of Applied Sciences. She described KUNO as a 'true flagship project' for an industry under pressure from shrinking fishing grounds and stricter climate and nature conservation rules.

The cutter will run on eco-friendly methanol instead of traditional marine diesel. The project also includes building a refuelling station to supply methanol to similar vessels. Marco Rimkus, President of Emden/Leer University of Applied Sciences, explained that the multimillion-euro grant will allow the development of a prototype for this innovative design.

KUNO is designed to be versatile, supporting both fishing and research activities. The Thünen Institute of Sea Fisheries and the Wadden Sea National Park Administration are collaborating on the project. It is also tied to the recently announced fleet adjustment programme, which plans to decommission older vessels.

The funding will help create a prototype that could modernise North Sea fishing. KUNO’s methanol-powered design and flexible use aim to address both environmental and industry challenges. The project marks a step toward more sustainable coastal fishing practices.

Read also:

Latest