Final answer:
The sentence suggests that factory ships are fishing vessels with on-board processing facilities, allowing them to operate far from shore for extended periods. However, there are concerns related to environmental impact and unsustainable fishing practices, aggravated by government subsidies and the significant carbon footprint of these large vessels.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sentence Fishing ships equipped with processing facilities are also known as factory ships suggests that some fishing vessels are not just for capturing fish but also have the capability to process and store the caught fish, making them self-sufficient floating factories. These factory ships are designed to enable long-distance travel and have the technology to ensure that fish are not only harvested but also prepared for sale before they even return to port. This level of efficiency in the commercial fishing industry means that ships can stay at sea for extended periods, thereby reducing the time between catch and market, which is crucial for the freshness and quality of sea products.
However, there are significant environmental and economic concerns associated with the operation of these oversized fishing fleets. They are often sustained by substantial government subsidies which can encourage overfishing and cause harm to marine ecosystems. Overcapitalized fleets contribute to the overexploitation of fish stocks and by-catch of non-target species, posing a threat to maritime biodiversity and the long-term viability of fisheries. Additionally, the significant carbon footprint of these vessels due to the high consumption of diesel fuel adds to environmental concerns.
The trends within the commercial fishing industry contribute to the global challenge of sustainable fishing practices. Heavy fishing has endangered not only the food security of various populations, especially in developing countries, but also the existence of certain marine species. Therefore, re-evaluating the role of factory ships in the light of their environmental impact is crucial for shaping future fishing policies and practices.