We are often asked what is the biggest challenge we have to face as part of our daily work. Our answer used to be fishermen and the fishing industry because in general, no matter what country they are from, they are very conservative and not easily convinced to give away their waste nets to an environmental initiative, such as Healthy Seas.
In the beginning, it was not easy at all to establish cooperation with them but by encouraging them and presenting them with the economic and environmental benefits, we were able to get them on our side.
Due to COVID-19 many of our activities had to slow down, including our activities with fishermen. In some countries, fishing activities ceased partially, for example in Greece. Now that some of the restrictions and border control regulations are lifted, our fishermen can continue working with full speed again, collecting and sending their waste fishing nets for regeneration.
In the last week, 2 new shipments took place. In Croatia, fishermen in Krnica and Plomin harbours joined forces with Healthy Seas for the first time, giving us their waste nets, 70% of which are trawlers. These, combined with what Ghost Diving Adriatic has caught since January, weigh an estimated 450 kgs.
Fishermen at Den Oever harbour in the Netherlands made their 2nd shipment of the year last week as well. Since April, they collected 15 tons of waste nets. We are very thankful for our cooperation with CIV Den Oever, Bek & Verburg B.V., KIMO Netherlands
The nets will be transported to Aquafil to be regenerated, together with other nylon waste, into ECONYL® yarn.
Healthy Seas is an excellent example of non-profits and industry working together toward the same aim: a better planet and healthier seas!
