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Guardians of the sea

Working together to tackle ghost gear

Copyright licence

Year of publication 2025

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 12 p.

Author FAO

Publisher FAO ;

Category Brochure

Synopsis (short abstract) Abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear, commonly known as ghost gear, is a significant environmental concern. This graphic novel highlights the efforts of fishers and other stakeholders in the Mediterranean and Black Sea region to tackle this issue. By sharing their stories, the publication aims to inspire fellow fishers, coastal communities and relevant actors to join and support these initiatives. It also contributes to shifting the narrative around ghost gear, placing emphasis on the proactive and solution-oriented role of fishers. Current communication on abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear often focuses on the problem, such as the contribution of fishers to ocean pollution, rather than the solutions, such as their active involvement in removing ghost gear to improve both their catches and the overall health of marine ecosystems.

Statutory body / Meeting title General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM)

Language English

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