Develop biodegradable fishing nets
A new project called Innovative Fishing Gear for Oceans (INdIGO) is aiming to develop a completely biodegradable fishing net with a controlled lifespan. The nets will biodegrade into natural materials within two years, not into smaller bits of plastic causing further pollution.
Every year more than 25,000 fishing nets are reported lost or discarded in the Atlantic Ocean.
SourceBenefits
- Could reduce environmental damage and wildlife harm from discarded and lost 'ghost nets'
Challenges
- May encourage discarding of nets in ocean
- Will take time to break down if lost
- Does not tackle unsustainable fishing practices
Making a difference
The INdIGO project aims to reduce the total quantity of plastic present in the FCE area by 3%.