The highest administrative court in the country ruled on Friday that appeals from several associations opposing the use of fishing nets in certain departments in the Southwest would not be accepted. The associations had argued against the use of nets, citing environmental and ecological concerns, and sought to halt or restrict their deployment in those areas. The decision comes amid ongoing debates over the impact of traditional fishing methods on local ecosystems. Supporters of net fishing argue that it is a time-honored practice that sustains local fisheries and the livelihoods of many residents in the region. They claim that the methods used are regulated and do not pose a significant threat to marine life. Environmental groups, however, have long raised concerns about the potential harm caused by fishing nets, including the risk of entangling marine animals and damaging delicate underwater habitats. They advocate for more sustainable fishing practices and stricter regulations to protect the environment. The court's decision allows the continued use of nets in the specified areas, reinforcing current policies and signaling that regulatory changes will require further legal or legislative action. This ruling is likely to remain a point of contention between environmental advocates and local fishing communities in the Southwest.