A joint recommendation submitted for the purpose of adopting the measures referred to in Article 15(2) in relation to the use of innovative fishing gear, within a specific sea basin, shall contain an assessment of the likely impacts of using such gear on the targeted species and on sensitive species and habitats. The Member States concerned shall collect the appropriate data necessary for such assessment.

The use of innovative fishing gear shall not be permitted where the assessments referred to in paragraph 1 indicate that their use will lead to significant negative impacts on sensitive habitats and non-target species.