The oceans are a vital ecosystem that is essential to the survival of countless species of marine life, as well as humans. Unfortunately, human activities have caused widespread water pollution, which has become a significant threat to the health of oceans and the creatures that live in them. Besides oil spills and agricultural runoff, plastic waste remains one of the most significant contributors to ocean pollution.
Whereas most pictures of plastic pollution illustrate bottles and straws bouncing on the surface, in fact, they constitute only a small part of the total damage. According to a recent report by Greenpeace, discarded fishing gear is the leading cause of plastic pollution in the oceans. It can harm marine animals in several ways, including entanglement, ingestion, and habitat destruction.
Additionally, lost or abandoned fishing gear, known as ghost gear, can continue to fish for years, catching and killing marine life indiscriminately. It is estimated that by 2050 if the problem is not solved there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish by weight.
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Some countries have implemented regulations that require fishing gear to be marked for easy identification as part of ongoing efforts to tackle the problem of ocean pollution. For instance, Taiwan’s Fisheries Agency requires fishing boats operating near the shore to mark their gill nets with registration numbers and report lost nets. Collection drops have also been installed for discarded nets in major harbors around Taiwan. To further encourage the recycling of discarded fishing nets, the Ocean Conservation Administration has offered NT$15 per kilogram for every net turned in, resulting in 150,000 kg of nets to date. According to Chen Wen-chin, the head of the Keelung Fishermen’s Association, “Society is progressing, and fishermen are changing with it.”
Recycling fishing gear is an effective approach that benefits not only the environment but also resource management. Nylon, the primary material used in fishnets, can be recycled and molded into various products, such as sunglasses frames, suitcases, and functional clothing. This recycling method is gaining popularity among textile companies as consumers are increasingly interested in eco-friendly options, and sustainable manufacturing processes that use fewer resources and generate less waste are more cost-effective, leading to higher profits for companies. Ultimately, the use of recycled fishing gear is a beneficial strategy for everyone involved, including the consumers, companies, and the ocean.
