Chilled and frozen fish business Youngs Seafood Limited has announced the results of its research into sustainable fishing technology.

Backed by Youngs Seafood, Project TrawlLight was a study compiled by the governments centre for environment, fisheries and aquaculture science using technology created by SafetyNet Technologies.

The research found that artificial light can be used, in conjunction with nets, to alter the selectivity of fishing trawls, ensuring that fishermen only catch the fish they want. The trials suggest that the technology radically reduces the number of by catch caught. The technology could help to ensure that fewer fish are wasted and could have the potential to save fishers time and money by reducing the trips to sea they need to make to catch fish they can land and sell.

David Parker, Youngs Seafoods marine biologist and Head of CSR, says, "The results of this research are very encouraging and we now hope that the industry, government and NGOs will come together to support further trials. Having been out on trawler during the research and having seen the technology in action, I believe this innovation could have a positive on the industry and the future of fishing."

Stuart Caborn, chief supply chain and procurement officer, at Youngs Seafood, adds, "We believe this technology could present a potential step-change in the sustainability of fishing, helping fishermen, our seas and our planet. As the UKs number one seafood business, we take our responsibilities to the planet very seriously and we want to inspire people to enjoy fish now and for generations to come. This project has been a great example of our Fish for Life programme on responsible sourcing and sustainable innovation in action."