Factors driving overfishing

Rising wealth in Asia and fishing subsidies are among factors driving over-exploitation of the world’s fish resources, while fish habitat is being destroyed by pollution, UN marine experts said.

Up to 32% of the world’s fish stocks are overexploited, depleted or recovering, they warned.

The UN Environment Programme says less-destructive ways of fishing that use more labour and less energy are needed to help restore the health of the world’s oceans and coasts.

The agency is leading a five-day conference in Manila of experts and officials from 70 governments.