Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner Visits World-Class Marine Research Facilities in Lowestoft
6 December 2024
Daniel Zeichner MP, Minister for Food Security and Rural Affairs at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and Jess Asato, MP for Lowestoft, visited the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) in Lowestoft yesterday (05 Dec) to explore their cutting-edge marine research capabilities used to help understand and address global problems of overfishing, climate change, marine pollution and biodiversity loss.
The visit began at the Cefas Lowestoft Laboratory in Pakefield, where the Minister joined the closing session of the student conference. This annual event supports Cefas’ commitment to developing early career marine scientists by providing their PhD students an opportunity to present their research to the wider organisation. During his visit, Minister Zeichner engaged with students and staff, participating in discussions about marine science and environmental research.
Minister Zeichner and Jess Asato with Neil Hornby (Cefas CEO) and staff from Cefas
Minister Zeichner and Jess Asato with Neil Hornby looking at a smartbuoy
Following a tour of the building, Minister Zeichner and Jess Asato visited the RV Cefas Endeavour, the organisation's flagship research vessel, moored in Lowestoft port. During the tour, they met with expert scientists and were shown the vessel's research facilities and specialist equipment. Together, the laboratory facilities and the RV Cefas Endeavour play a vital role in supporting the UK's marine science and environmental monitoring programmes.
A key focus of the visit was an opportunity for Minister Zeichner to understand Cefas' future infrastructure plans for marine research delivery. The discussion explored how investment in advanced research capabilities will enhance the UK's ability to monitor and protect marine environments.
Minister Zeichner and Jess Asato meet with Cefas colleagues onboard the RV
Minister Zeichner and Jess Asato in the RV wheelhouse
Fisheries Minister Daniel Zeichner said:
"It was fascinating to get a deep dive into the work of Cefas. Their efforts to understand and protect our marine environment are vital in supporting our coastal communities, food security, clean energy and nature recovery. The RV Cefas Endeavour and the facility in Lowestoft demonstrates the UK's commitment to world-leading marine science and research. The plans presented today show an ambitious vision for the future of UK marine science capabilities and leadership."
MP for Lowestoft, Jess Asato said:
“Cefas is a jewel in Lowestoft’s crown, playing a vital role in addressing global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable fisheries management. Its work highlights Lowestoft as a hub for marine science and innovation, while also deeply benefiting our community.
Cefas also has incredible potential to inspire future scientists through its education programmes and apprenticeships, raising aspirations for young people across Suffolk. By combining world-class research with community engagement, Cefas represents the best of Lowestoft. I am proud to support this institution as it shapes a sustainable future for our planet and our town.”
Cefas CEO, Neil Hornby said:
“Hosting the Minister and Jess Asato was a valuable opportunity to showcase the research that we conduct at Cefas which helps us understand and balance the impact of human activities on our marine and freshwater ecosystems. By understanding how these are changing, we are able to advise governments on how to best manage and mitigate these risks; balancing the needs of society and nature towards a sustainable future for our ocean, seas and rivers.”
The visit highlighted both Cefas's current research capabilities and its forward-looking approach to developing future infrastructure to deliver better impacts and outcomes for society and nature.
Related to this article
Case studies
People
News
Further Reading
