Tons of abandoned fishing gear in the sea and on beaches are affecting marine life, as reported by a charitable organization.
Diver Stephen Smith stated that volunteers from the charity Clean Planet UK removed two tons of abandoned or lost “ghost” fishing nets, lines, and ropes from the sea between Hartlepool and Saltburn last year.
Crustaceans and fish get entangled in the gear, which can also damage coral reefs.
Mr. Smith mentioned that his team was also collecting abandoned lobster traps, which can trap and kill marine life.
“Last year we recovered a record amount of lost fishing gear and recycled around two tons,” he said.
“People should be more responsible when visiting beaches. Every summer we see them leave all their trash, which may not seem like much to them, but it wreaks havoc on marine life.”
Mr. Smith noted that lobster traps lost during storms also posed a threat by trapping crustaceans.
“Everyone knows the sea is in bad shape due to trash, and doing nothing is not an option. We have to start acting now,” he added.
Abandoned Fishing Gear: How It Affects Marine Life
Abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) is causing growing concern due to its numerous negative environmental and economic impacts, including hazards to navigation and related safety issues.
The ability of this gear to continue fishing (often referred to as “ghost fishing”) has harmful impacts on fish populations and potential effects on endangered species and benthic environments.
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