Antony Boffey
August 19, 2024
The Impact of Ghost Gear: What It Is and How to Take Action
We've probably all come across ghost gear without even realising it. Strolling along the beach, we might spot a tangled mess of ropes or fragments of fishing nets washed ashore, often mistaken for harmless debris. However, these remnants of lost or discarded fishing gear, known as ghost gear, are far from harmless. They pose a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems. This guide aims to shed light on the menace of ghost gear, its impact on our oceans, and how each of us can contribute to its eradication.
Table of contents
- What is ghost gear?
Why is ghost gear a problem for the ocean? - What causes ghost gear?
- How much ghost gear is in the ocean?
What is the impact of ghost gear? - The ghost gear entanglement cycle
- How much plastic does the average person consume per year?
- Waterhaul’s mission: Turning ghost gear into recycled plastic materials
- What can I do to prevent ocean waste and ghost gear?
What is ghost gear?
Ghost gear refers to any fishing equipment that has been abandoned, lost, or discarded in the ocean. This includes fishing nets, ropes, lines, and traps. Once separated from fishing vessels, this gear continues to drift in the ocean, entangling marine life and damaging habitats. Ghost gear is a subset of marine litter but is particularly harmful due to it being designed specifically to trap and kill marine animals, combined with its extreme durability.
Types of ghost gear
Nets: Fishing nets made of synthetic materials can persist in the ocean for decades.
Ropes and lines: These can entangle marine life and become wrapped around reefs and other marine habitats and structures.
Traps and pots: Used for catching crabs, lobsters and other marine life living on the seabed, these can continue to capture and kill sea creatures long after being lost.
Aquaculture gear: Aquaculture gear refers to the various tools and equipment used in raising fish, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms in a controlled environment. This gear can be quite diverse depending on the species being farmed and the specific techniques employed.
Fish aggregating devices: Also known as FADs, these are structures placed in the ocean to attract fish. These can be simple objects like buoys or more complex arrangements of netting and lines. Fish are attracted to these structures for a variety of reasons, including the presence of food, shelter, or spawning areas. FAD use can be a controversial topic, as some argue it can lead to overfishing.
Fishery-associated plastics: Other than the ghost gear mentioned above other items such as fish crates, components within feeding systems and aerators, buoys and floats, can become lost, or discarded, adding to plastic debris in the ocean.
Why is ghost gear a problem for the ocean?
Historically, fishing gear was made from natural materials like hemp and cotton, which would eventually biodegrade if lost at sea. However, with the advent of synthetic materials in the mid-20th century, fishing nets and lines became more durable but also more persistent in the environment. The durability that made these materials effective for fishing also meant that lost gear could remain in the ocean indefinitely. Ghost gear doesn't just passively wait in the ocean depths. The constant motion of waves, currents, and tides can transform it into monstrous snares, significantly amplifying its destructive potential.
Examples of how some types of fishing gear becomes a problem are below:
Nets: Fragile marine life can become entangled in ghost nets, tearing and ripping the mesh. These tears can snag on other debris or derelict fishing gear, creating a larger, more complex entanglement hazard. Over time, currents can further twist and bunch the net, forming a dense and deadly trap for unsuspecting creatures.
Fishing Lines & Lines with Hooks: Lost fishing lines with hooks can act like deadly fishing gear themselves. As they drift, these lines can snag on other lines, nets, or debris, creating a tangled mess. This accumulation of lines increases the overall entanglement risk for marine animals, presenting multiple hooks and hazards in a single area.
Pots & Traps: Lost or abandoned pots and traps can become collection points for other debris. Currents can sweep plastic bags, ropes, or even derelict fishing gear into open pots, creating a nightmarish combination of entanglement threats. These "composite ghost traps" become even more dangerous as they accumulate debris, increasing their overall size and destructive capacity.
Buoys & Floats: While seemingly non-harmful, even buoys and floats can contribute to the problem. Detached buoys can snag on lost lines or nets, becoming anchors that weigh down the gear and prevent it from resurfacing or breaking free. This can extend the lifespan of submerged equipment and increase its potential to catch marine life, contributing to ghost fishing.
The ever-growing size and complexity of ghost gear due to entanglement is a major concern. These monstrous amalgamations pose an even greater threat to marine life, significantly increasing the likelihood of entanglement, injury, and death. Animals across the animal kingdom, from seabirds to whales, are susceptible to the dangers of ingesting plastic pollution.
What causes ghost gear?
There are several ways that fishing gear can become ghost gear. Not all ghost gear and plastic pollution is intentional, but the damage they cause remains gruesomely high. Here are the most common examples:
Accidental loss: This is the most common culprit. Gear can snag on underwater features, entangle with other fishing gear, or be cut loose due to bad weather. When fishing gear snags on underwater obstacles, the decision to cut away gear can be as serious as a life or death choice in extreme circumstances.
Equipment failure: Some fishing gear designs, particularly those with weak release mechanisms or using materials not designed to degrade naturally, can contribute to ghost gear, either through malfunction or simply due to improper design.
Lack of disposal facilities: Fishing occurs at a global scale, yet proper disposal facilities for fishing gear at the end of its life do not. Even if specialist recycling facilities exist, these often charge the fishers and the financial burden of disposing responsibly of this plastic waste can make it inaccessible or can act as a disincentive. At Waterhaul, we aim to flip this incentive by removing the associated cost to fishing businesses and treating fishing gear as a resource rather than waste.
Lack of gear retrieval programs: In some regions, limited infrastructure or resources dedicated to retrieving lost gear can make it difficult for fishers to recover their equipment, even if they're willing.
Illegal, unregulated, and unreported (IUU) fishing: In this unsanctioned industry, fishers operating illegally might intentionally discard damaged gear or cut lines to avoid detection by authorities. The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (UN FAO) acknowledges that Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing continues to be one of the most significant threats to marine ecosystems. Its ability to undermine both national and regional initiatives aimed at conserving marine biodiversity and managing fisheries sustainably is particularly concerning. IUU fishing depletes fish stocks available to legitimate fishers, which can result in the collapse of local fisheries, with small-scale fisheries in developing nations being especially at risk.
How much ghost gear is in the ocean?
The scale of ghost gear pollution is staggering:
Over 19 million tonnes of ghost gear are estimated to be in the oceans already.
640,000 tonnes are added globally each year. Although this estimate is actually predicted to be extremely conservative with the actual number much higher. The WWF has said it could even be as high as 1 million tonnes being added globally each year. 640,000 tonnes has been compared to;
• More than 50 thousand double-decker buses
• As heavy as two Empire State buildings
• 65 Eiffel Towers-worth of fishing tackle or
• The weight of over 4266 blue whales
11,500 tonnes of waste fishing gear is generated annually in the UK alone.
The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, the largest plastic accumulation in the ocean, provides a stark illustration of the problem. A 2022 study by the Marine Conservation Society found that of a 6,093-item sample size of hard plastics:
• 28% of the mass were unidentifiable fragments.
• 8% of the mass was fishing and aquaculture gear.
• 21% were plastic floats and buoys.
• 1% were plastic food and drink containers.
• 16% were household items.
One 2018 report into the Great Pacific Garbage Patch found that over half the weight is from fishing gear, estimating the total mass at 100,000 tonnes, with ghost gear making up over 50,000 tonnes. However, a 2018 study in Nature suggested the total weight could be 129,000 tonnes, 29% higher than initially estimated. These figures emphasise the significant impact of ghost gear on marine pollution.
What is the impact of ghost gear?
Ghost gear wreaks havoc on the marine environment in several ways:
Damage to marine habitats
Ghost gear can become entangled in coral reefs and other underwater structures, causing physical damage. Coral reefs, vital for marine biodiversity, are particularly vulnerable. The gear can break coral branches, smother growth, and disrupt the delicate balance of these ecosystems. A UK marine benthic habitat refers to the ecological region at the lowest level of a body of water, including the sediment surface and sub-surface layers. These habitats are vital for maintaining marine biodiversity and are characterised by various physical and biological features that support a wide range of marine life.
Contributes to climate change
Damage to marine ecosystems and habitats suppresses their ability to store carbon. Globally, saltmarshes and seagrass – blue carbon sinks – draw down and store between them 235-450 million tonnes of carbon a year; almost half the emissions from the entire global transport sector. Scientists estimate that saltmarsh and seagrass habitats fix and store (or sequester) carbon at two to four times the rate of mature tropical forests. This means the UK’s saltmarshes and seagrass beds have the carbon storage potential of between 1,000 and 2,000 km2 of tropical forests. Plastic also releases GHGs during decomposition, further contributing to climate change.
Danger to marine animals and birds
Marine life, including cetaceans (whales and dolphins), seals, fish, turtles, and seabirds, often become trapped in ghost gear. This can lead to injury, starvation, and death. Seals and dolphins are frequently entangled, resulting in severe injuries or drowning. Birds, mistaking floating gear for food, can ingest plastic or become entangled, impacting their ability to feed and fly.
Further ways ghost gear can kill:
Mistaken identity: Many types of plastic pollution resemble food sources for marine animals. Sea turtles, for instance, might mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, a common prey item. Birds can ingest plastic fragments that look like small fish or krill. This accidental ingestion can lead to gut blockages, reduced feeding, and even starvation.
Seabirds mistaking plastic for food: A long-term study in the Netherlands revealed a shocking truth - the average northern fulmar bird has stomachs containing a staggering 25 pieces of plastic!
Sperm whale choked by plastic waste: In a tragic incident at Indonesia's Wakatobi National Park, a sperm whale washed ashore with its stomach filled with a nightmarish amount of plastic. The whale's digestive system contained 115 cups, 25 plastic bags, 4 bottles, and even 2 slippers! A total of over 1,000 plastic pieces weighing a hefty 6 kilograms contributed to the whale's demise.
Sea turtle overloaded with plastic debris: A heartbreaking case from Brazil highlights the severity of plastic pollution. A young green turtle found on the coast near Florianópolis was critically weak and died shortly after. A necropsy revealed a horrifying truth - the turtle's gut and stomach contained a combined total of over 3,500 pieces of plastic! This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact plastic pollution has on marine animals.
Although these examples have been listed, these are not sporadic one-off incidents. This is now the ongoing plight marine life is facing in our oceans. The issue of plastic pollution isn't limited to marine life however;
Camels succumbing to plastic waste
In the United Arab Emirates, plastic pollution is responsible for a shocking statistic - half of all camel deaths! These animals, known for their desert resilience, are dying from ingesting plastic garbage. Lumps of plastic weighing between 10 and 60 kilograms have been found in their stomachs, causing blockages that lead to starvation.
Bioaccumulation of toxins
Plastic pollution can absorb harmful chemicals from the surrounding seawater. When animals ingest plastic, these toxins can enter their bodies and accumulate over time in a process called bioaccumulation. These toxins can disrupt hormones, impair development, and even cause death.
Microplastics
A Growing Threat: The breakdown of plastic debris into tiny particles called microplastics is a major concern. These microplastics are virtually invisible and can be ingested by a wide range of marine life, from plankton to filter feeders like mussels and oysters. The long-term effects of microplastic ingestion on marine animals are still being studied, but research suggests potential harm to growth, reproduction, and overall health.
The ghost gear entanglement cycle
The ghost gear entanglement cycle describes a well-documented phenomenon in our oceans. It highlights the tragic and ongoing threat posed by lost or discarded fishing gear to marine life. The ghost gear entanglement cycle begins when lost or abandoned fishing gear drifts through the ocean, entangling and harming marine life. As it continues to float, it traps fish, turtles, seabirds, and mammals, causing injury or death. The gear eventually deteriorates into smaller fragments and microplastics, which further pollute the marine environment and enter the food chain.
1 - Initial entanglement: Fishing gear, like nets, lines, and pots, becomes lost or discarded at sea. Marine animals, including fish, sea turtles, marine mammals, and birds, can become entangled in this ghost gear.
2 - Struggle and deterioration: The entangled animal struggles to free itself, often leading to injuries, exhaustion, and even death. Over time, the ghost gear and the entangled carcass begin to decompose.
3 - Death trap transformation: The decomposing carcass trapped in the ghost gear creates a scent trail in the water. This scent, unfortunately, attracts scavengers and predators like sharks and dolphins.
4 - Secondary entanglement: Drawn in by the scent, these larger animals become entangled themselves, often adding to the growing mass of debris and dead organisms. The cycle perpetuates with each new victim.
5 - Continued "ghost fishing": Even after the initial entanglement and decomposition occur, the ghost gear can remain functional. Broken pieces of nets or lines can continue to snag and entrap unsuspecting animals.
In 2018, it was reported by Earth.org that 650,000 marine animals are killed by ghost fishing per year.
Economic Losses
Ghost gear not only affects marine life but also has economic repercussions. The decline in fish stocks due to ghost gear can impact local fisheries and communities reliant on fishing for their livelihoods. The cost of removing ghost gear from the ocean is significant, requiring resources and coordination among various stakeholders.
Nets for Zero founding team member Nina Lantinga states that 10% of the global fish stocks are trapped and killed by ghost fishing gear. A recent study from the Virginia Institute of Marine Science revealed that removing derelict crab pots in the Chesapeake Bay resulted in an extra $20 million in harvests for local fishermen over six years. On a global scale, the study indicated that removing just 10 percent of ghost gear could boost fish landings by nearly 300,000 metric tons. In another example from the Global Seafood Alliance's "The Hidden Cost of Ghost Gear Lost by Fishing and Aquaculture," a crab fishery in British Columbia faced annual replacement costs of nearly $500,000.
Danger to Human Life
Ghost gear does not just cause destruction and contamination in marine environments. The effect of this plastic pollution can be seen more and more in everyday lives.
Exposure to harmful chemicals
Many plastics contain or leach out chemicals during production and breakdown. These chemicals, known as endocrine disruptors, can interfere with human hormones and have been linked to various health problems, including developmental issues, reproductive problems, and some cancers.
Microplastic ingestion
Plastic debris breaks down into tiny particles called microplastics, which can be ingested by humans through contaminated food (like seafood) and water, or even inhaled. Studies have shown these microplastics can damage human cells, potentially leading to serious health effects like cancers, lung disease, and birth defects.
How much plastic does the average person consume per year?
A widely cited study published in Environmental Science & Technology on the human consumption of microplastics suggests an annual microplastic consumption range of 39,000 to 52,000 particles for an average American, considering diet alone. This number can increase to 74,000 to 121,000 particles if inhalation is factored in. The study highlights that these estimates likely underestimate actual consumption. Factors like diet (particularly seafood intake) and reliance on bottled water can significantly impact the number of microplastics ingested. Individuals who solely consume bottled water may ingest an additional 90,000 microplastics annually compared to those who drink only tap water.Importantly, the study only analysed around 15% of an American's caloric intake.
Data on microplastic presence in many food groups, like vegetables and grains, is still lacking. This means the true annual consumption could be much higher. Therefore, while a definitive amount cannot be pinpointed, current research suggests the average person likely consumes tens of thousands of microplastic particles each year.
Further references on the severity and consequences of ghost gear
The severity of the problem: "Ghost gear is the most harmful type of marine debris due to its entanglement potential and its persistence in the environment," says Jacqueline McGlade, former Chief Scientist at the United Nations Environment Programme. This persistent plastic continues to trap and kill fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures long after it's lost at sea.
The ripple effect: The impact of ghost gear extends far beyond individual animals. A 2020 report by WWF and the World Bank titled "Effective Ghost Gear Solutions" states that "Effective ghost gear solutions not only benefit the environment...but can also generate economic benefits for the fishing industry." By reducing gear loss, ghost gear solutions can contribute to a healthier ocean and a more sustainable fishing industry.
The urgency of action: Ocean Conservancy estimates that ghost gear is responsible for "at least 5% to 30% of global declines in some fish populations," highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue. These staggering numbers underscore the need for immediate action to tackle ghost gear and protect the health of our oceans.
Ghost gear is a complex problem, but it's not insurmountable. Here at Waterhaul, we're dedicated to finding innovative solutions to remove ghost gear from our oceans and prevent its entry in the first place. Harry Dennis, Marine Biologist and founder of Waterhaul states
""Ghost gear represents a critical, yet often overlooked, threat to marine ecosystems. At Waterhaul, we're deeply committed to addressing this issue from multiple angles—by not only removing existing ghost gear from our oceans but also by pioneering innovative solutions that prevent its loss in the first place. The complexity of the problem requires a multifaceted approach: enhancing the design and durability of fishing gear, implementing robust reporting systems for lost gear, and fostering partnerships with the fishing industry to promote best practices.We've seen firsthand the devastating impact ghost gear can have—not just on individual marine animals, but on entire ecosystems and the communities that depend on them. The good news is that this problem is solvable. By working together, we can significantly reduce ghost gear's footprint and create a healthier, more sustainable ocean environment. It's about turning a vicious cycle of destruction into a virtuous cycle of restoration, ensuring that our oceans remain vibrant and productive for future generations.""
There are a number of things that can be done to address the problem of ghost gear. These include:
- Improving fishing gear so that it is less likely to be lost or abandoned.
- Requiring fishers to report lost gear.
- Developing programs to remove ghost gear from the ocean.
Waterhaul’s mission: Turning ghost gear into recycled plastic materials
At Waterhaul, we are committed to combating the ghost gear crisis by transforming it into valuable recycled products. Our mission focuses on repurposing discarded fishing nets and other ghost gear into high-quality, sustainable materials. For instance, our recycled sunglasses are crafted from these salvaged nets, providing a tangible solution to this pressing issue. By turning waste into functional performance-focused items, we aim to reduce ocean pollution and raise awareness about the impact of ghost gear. Our efforts demonstrate that with innovative approaches, it is possible to mitigate the damage caused by marine debris and contribute to a cleaner, healthier ocean.
What can I do to prevent ocean waste and ghost gear?
Everyone can play a part in reducing ocean waste and ghost gear. Here are some actionable steps you can take:
Everyday litter picking: Engage in regular litter-picking activities on beaches, shorelines, and coastal paths. Collecting small pieces of net and rope can prevent them from causing harm to marine life. We created our own range of litter pickers and litter picking equipment so the very waste we are combatting now can help be part of the solution.
Get involved in local beach cleans: Join local beach clean-up events organised by community groups or environmental organisations. These events not only help to clean the beaches but also foster a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Report ghost gear: If you spot large pieces of ghost gear or difficult-to-reach hauls, report them to the relevant authorities or organisations. Timely reporting can lead to the safe removal of hazardous gear and prevent further damage.
Responsibly sourced seafood consumption: By consuming less fish / seafood, you directly reduce the demand that drives fishing practices which contribute to ghost gear. If this isn't an option, when buying fish or seafood, opt for species caught using methods with low plastic pollution risks, such as via pole and line. When buying from local fishmongers, engage and talk to them regarding their sourcing practices, and prioritise those who support sustainable fisheries with minimal environmental impact.
What should I do if I spot ghost gear on the beach?
Here are some dos and don’ts to follow when encountering ghost gear on a public beach:
Do's
Do litter pick small pieces of net and rope on the beach.
Do check beaches, shorelines, and coastal paths for ghost gear.
Do encourage others to participate in clean-up efforts.
Do report large pieces of ghost gear or difficult-to-reach hauls to Waterhaul or the relevant authorities.
Do check for wildlife caught in the ghost gear and report to wildlife rescue organisations if needed.
Do wear appropriate clothing and use the correct equipment. For instance, fishing nets often wrap around rock or other debris. Using a utility knife with a blunt tip such as the one we have at Waterhaul, allows you to cut away these nets but is much safer to handle.
Don'ts
Don’t put yourself in danger by attempting to remove large or heavy nets and ropes.
Don’t try to lift heavy nets and ropes unaided.
Don't try to retrieve ghost gear in the sea or in hard to reach places, due to tides, rockfalls, and danger of slipping and hurting yourself.
Don’t move any large wildlife trapped in the ghost gear; report it to the relevant organisations for safe handling.
Reporting and resources
Marine Conservation Society: Report marine litter
Waterhaul: - Report ghost gear
British Divers Marine Life Rescue: Rescue and advice
By following these guidelines and participating in community efforts, we can collectively combat the menace of ghost gear and protect our oceans for future generations.
Raising awareness and education
Education and awareness are crucial components in the fight against ghost gear. By informing the public about the dangers of ghost gear, we can foster a culture of environmental stewardship. Here are some ways to spread awareness:
Educational campaigns: At Waterhaul we advocate for organising educational campaigns in schools and communities to teach people about the impact of ghost gear and the importance of ocean conservation. Interactive workshops, presentations, and hands-on activities can engage participants and drive home the message.
Social media: Utilise social media platforms to share information about ghost gear and the efforts to combat it. Use hashtags, share impactful images and videos, and encourage followers to get involved in local clean-up events and advocacy efforts.
Partnerships: Collaborate with other environmental organisations, local councils, and businesses to amplify the message and pool resources for a larger impact. Joint initiatives can reach a wider audience and make a more significant difference. In recent years Waterhaul has collaborated with Surfers against Sewage, the Canal and River Trust, Seashell and Rivers are Life to name but a few of the amazing partners. For more information please visit here.
What can I do to help If I don’t live by the coastline?
You don’t have to live near the ocean to make a significant impact on reducing plastic pollution and combatting ghost gear. Here are several ways you can contribute to the cause, no matter where you live:
Reduce, reuse, recycle, rethink
One of the most effective ways to combat plastic pollution is to minimise your own plastic use. Here are a few strategies:
Reduce: Avoid single-use plastics such as plastic bags, straws, and bottles. Opt for reusable alternatives like recycled bags, metal straws, and reusable water bottles.
Reuse: Repurpose plastic items whenever possible. For instance, reuse plastic containers for storage rather than buying new ones.
Recycle: Make sure to recycle plastic products according to your local recycling guidelines. Properly sorting and disposing of recyclables can prevent them from ending up in landfills or oceans.
Rethink: At Waterhaul, we're not here to preach or dictate how you should live your life, but we believe the following methods are proven to help reduce plastic pollution and ghost gear. You can reduce your seafood consumption, or choose sustainable seafood. Certifications exist such as those by the Marine Stewardship Council (MCS). Consider also incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet. When purchasing items, if it is possible, look into buying in bulk to reduce the amount of packaging that is required. We ask everyone to help spread awareness and advocate for change, the more focus this issue gets, the more it will hopefully bring about a more concentrated series of solutions to dealing with ghost gear and plastic pollution en mass.
Support sustainable brands that directly tackle the ghost gear pandemic
Choose products from companies that are committed to sustainability, reducing plastic waste and are directly targeting ghost fishing gear. By supporting brands that use recycled materials from ghost gear and eco-friendly packaging, you can help drive demand for sustainable practices. At Waterhaul, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported our mission by purchasing our range of recycled ocean plastic sunglasses, litter-picking equipment, or folding knives. Your commitment not only helps reduce ghost gear pollution but also drives positive change for our oceans and marine life.
Participate in national and global campaigns
Even if you’re far from the coast, you can still get involved in larger initiatives:
International coastal cleanup: Join global movements like the International Coastal Cleanup, which mobilises volunteers worldwide to clean up water bodies.
Plastic free July: Take part in Plastic Free July, a global challenge to reduce plastic use.
All waterways lead to the ocean:
If you live near a river or lake, "adopt it", organise or participate in clean-up events and initiatives to prevent plastic waste from reaching the ocean. You might think litter collecting on land wouldn't have much impact on the ocean, but that's not quite true. Our waterways, from humble streams to mighty rivers, all eventually lead to the sea. Here's how beach and lake cleanups play a vital role in reducing plastic pollution in our oceans:
Intercepting plastic on its journey: Plastic debris on land, like streets, parks, and even your backyard, can easily be carried by wind or rain into rivers and storm drains. These drains empty into rivers and streams, eventually reaching the ocean. By picking up litter around lakes and oceans, we capture plastic before it enters this vast network of waterways.
Preventing microplastic pollution: Larger plastic items break down into smaller and smaller pieces called microplastics over time. These tiny fragments are easily ingested by marine life and can enter the food chain. Beach and lake cleanups remove larger plastic items before they have a chance to degrade into microplastics, protecting marine ecosystems.
Raising awareness and inspiring action: Cleanups are not just about removing trash; they raise awareness about the issue of plastic pollution. Seeing the sheer volume of plastic collected can be a powerful motivator for individuals to reduce their plastic use and make more sustainable choices. Cleanups often involve volunteers from the community, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for protecting our waterways.
Protecting local ecosystems: Lakes and coastal areas are vital ecosystems for a variety of plants and animals. Plastic pollution can harm these ecosystems by entangling wildlife, blocking waterways, and introducing harmful chemicals. Cleanups directly benefit the health of local habitats and the creatures that call them home.
Every piece of plastic collected during a cleanup is one less piece that could potentially end up in the ocean. So next time you see a beach or lake cleanup happening, consider joining in. You'll be making a real difference for the health of our oceans and the planet as a whole.
Untangling the threat: Potential solutions to ghost gear
As we have talked about at length ghost gear poses a serious threat to marine life and ecosystems. Fortunately, there's a growing movement to address this issue, and one Waterhaul is proud to be at the heart of.
Prevention at the source
Gear marking and registration
Implementing mandatory gear marking and registration programs can help identify lost equipment and hold fishers accountable for their gear. This allows for easier retrieval and reduces the chances of gear becoming ghost gear.
Improved gear design: Encouraging the development and use of more durable, biodegradable, or easier-to-retrieve gear can significantly reduce the risk of gear loss. There has been Research into breakaway panels in traps or nets and biodegradable materials which shows promise.
Better fishing practices: Promoting best practices for gear deployment, retrieval, and maintenance can minimise accidental loss. This includes proper gear storage on board vessels, training on responsible gear handling, and weather forecasting to avoid gear loss during storms.
Gear retrieval and removal
Gear retrieval programs: Developing and supporting programs that incentivise fishers to retrieve lost gear can be highly effective. Compensation programs or quota systems that reward responsible gear retrieval can create a positive economic incentive.
Community cleanups and citizen science: Organising beach cleanups and citizen science initiatives can play a crucial role in removing ghost gear from coastlines. These efforts not only remove existing gear but raise awareness about the issue. Citizen science is a growing field with a wide range of applications. It allows people to connect with science in a meaningful way, promotes scientific literacy, and helps address complex environmental and social challenges. Examples include Monitoring bird populations where volunteers track bird sightings in their backyards or local parks such as Big Garden Birdwatch run by the RSPB.
Advanced retrieval technologies: Investing in and utilising innovative technologies like underwater drones, specialised grappling hooks, and mapping tools can significantly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of ghost gear retrieval efforts.
Waste management and recycling
Improved waste disposal infrastructure: Developing better port waste reception facilities allows fishers to properly dispose of worn-out gear, preventing it from entering the ocean. Additionally, promoting responsible waste disposal practices among recreational fishers is crucial. At Waterhaul we are always looking to talk to port and harbour masters to assist with recycling end-of-life fishing gear.
Recycling initiatives: Encouraging the development of recycling programs specifically for ghost gear can give new life to old materials. Recycled ghost gear can be transformed into various products. At Waterhaul we have so far managed to recycle ocean plastic into sunglasses, litter-picking equipment and knives. However, we are looking to pioneer new products and uses of this ocean plastic waste.
Reduce waste and boost sustainability: Waterhaul offers businesses and organisations a convenient option to rent high-quality litter pickers for clean-up events. This allows them to make a positive environmental impact without the burden of individual ownership.
Collaboration and policy change
Industry collaboration: Collaboration between fishing gear manufacturers, fishers, environmental organisations, and governments is essential for developing and implementing effective solutions. Sharing best practices, knowledge exchange, and joint research efforts can accelerate progress.
Public education campaigns: Raising public awareness about the issue of ghost gear is essential. Educational campaigns can encourage the public to choose sustainable seafood and support responsible fishing practices. Additionally, educating beachgoers about the dangers of plastic pollution and the importance of proper waste disposal can minimise land-based sources of ghost gear. With the ever-growing focus on eco-tourism, opportunities for families and individuals to get involved in protecting the area they are visiting or holidaying in should become more prevalent.
Policy and regulation: Enacting stricter regulations on gear use, disposal, and reporting lost gear can play a significant role in deterring irresponsible practices and promoting accountability. Additionally, policies that incentivise sustainable fishing practices can create a long-term solution. There are examples of this already in place, in Canada a ghost gear fund has been set up to encourage Canadians to take action. Within the UK, Waterhaul launched our innovative "Money for Old Rope" campaign, where we will pay people for the handfuls of fishing gear collected on their beach cleans or for the plastic collected during a litter pick, in the form of vouchers, which can be used on our eyewear ranges.
The road ahead
Addressing ghost gear requires a multi-pronged approach. By combining preventative measures, retrieval efforts, responsible waste management, and collaborative policy changes, we can significantly reduce the threat ghost gear poses to our oceans. As research and innovation continue, even more effective solutions are likely to emerge.
Conclusion
Ghost gear is a hidden but devastating form of marine pollution that demands our attention and action. By understanding what ghost gear is, recognising its impact, and taking proactive steps to address the problem, we can contribute to the preservation of our marine environments. At Waterhaul, we are dedicated to transforming ghost gear into truly sustainable products and promoting awareness about this critical issue. Together, we can make a significant difference and ensure that our oceans remain vibrant and healthy for all forms of life. By creating and sharing this guide, we hope to educate and empower beachgoers, conservationists, and the general public to take action against ghost gear. With collective effort and informed choices, we can reduce the presence of ghost gear in our oceans and protect the marine life that depends on these ecosystems. Join us in the fight against ghost gear and be part of the solution to one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Sources
The Global Ghost Gear Initiative. FAQs - The Global Ghost Gear Initiative
World Wildlife Fund. Stopping Ghost Gear: The Most Deadly Form of Marine Plastic Debris
Olive Ridley Project. Why is ghost gear a problem?
National Geographic Society. Microplastics.
Marine Conservation Society - analysing the high streets wet wipe claims
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). "Marine Debris Program: Ingestion"
Plastic Soup Foundation. "What Happens When Animals Eat Plastic?"
Unesco "Ocean plastic pollution an overview: data and statistics"
Ocean Clean Up - Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Greenmatch Ocean Pollution: A Deep Dive into Current Statistics and Trends
Marine Conservation Society - "The state of our beaches"
Greenpeace - The abandoned fishing nets haunting our oceans
Sea Shepherd - "Sea the facts"
Science Direct - Challenges and misperceptions around global fishing gear loss estimates
ISSUU Fishing gear made from biodegradable plastic
Natural England Fisheries Impacts on Marine Protected Habitats – A Review of the Evidence
Food Print - Ghost Fishing Gear
CleanHub, How Does Plastic Affect Human Health?
Earth Day, What You Need to Know About the Impact of Plastics on Human Health
Environ. Sci. Technol. 2019, 53, 12, 7068–7074
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