Problem
1.
Lack of incentives encouraging the appropriate disposal of used nets
2.
Poor or no access to proper disposal points or recycling facilities
3.
Harming and endangering aquaculture of high economic value
The ghost of the mediterranean
considered the cradle of civilization, The Dependency of human kind on the sea over centuries has exposed it to a number of threats. Its semi-enclosed composition bordered by multiple densely populated countries facilitate the accumulation of all kinds of marine litter.
The sector that is most dependent on the health of the sea is one of the main contributors to the pollution problem. Abandoned fishing gear has been identified as one of the most biologically threatening types of marine litter. Depending on the type of fishery, however, the causes for the abandonment and loss can vary.
research
the problem of lost, abandoned or otherwise discarded fishing gear is widely acknowledged, lacking scientific data to quantify the abundance of ghost nets in the mediterranean sea and overall in our oceans.
Deghost the med is aiming to assess the threat in marine protected areas of the Mediterranean by understanding the causes with the support of local fisheries.
recycle
To prevent gear from being discarded at sea, environmentally sound disposal of nets has to be enabled, motivating local fisheries to partake in the initiative.
Deghost the med is aiming to set up a circular flow of fishing gear to be used as a secondary raw material with the implementation of drop-off points and establishment of an intact local supply chain network.
research
despite the consensus on the contribution of discarded fishing gear to marine pollution, the problem lacks proper assessment in the Mediterranean. This project aims to gather data on abandoned fishing gear in marine protected areas to quantify how regulated areas are affected by this threat. the correct evaluation will create a scientific basis for preventive solutions.
Mapping and quantifying the abundance of ghost nets in selected marine protected areas of the Mediterranean sea
Diving-based physical removal of ghost nets for symptom treatment and further material utilization
Gathering data on abandonment causes by collaborating with local organizations and fisheries
recycle
sustainable supply chain concepts are better enforced on land with governmental regulations, the realization of those regarding open waters pose a more significant challenge. incentives have to be created for the strategic outcome of environmental benefits, which can not only be seen as a positive side effect but have to be aimed for explicitly to sustain the sector.
Creating economic incentives with refunds for the environmentally sound disposal of fishing gear
Setting up an open-loop flow and enabling the use of fishing gear as a secondary raw material
Preventing gear from being discarded at sea, resulting in ghost fishing - continuing to kill and harm beyond its intentional use
call for partners
partners
we believe in joining forces and creating synergies where ever possible to work towards our common goal:
reducing human impact to conserve our beautiful Mediterranean.
We appreciate every effort To take these projects from the cradle to their successful implementation.
join the initiative
reach out for possible partnerships and collaborations