Sensemaker at the Observer

Mankind is killing the seas. That’s the message from David Attenborough’s new film Ocean, which has put bottom trawling in the crosshairs of environmental activists. So what? Bottom trawling and dredge fishing are among the most widespread methods of destructive fishing, but for decades they’ve been largely hidden from view. What has helped Ocean cut through - apart from Attenborough’s involvement - is rare footage that gives a fish-eye view of bottom trawling in action. The film has galvanised campaigners ahead of a UN summit on oceans next week. Drag. Bottom trawling involves pulling a heavy chain or metal beam…