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Can biodegradable materials reduce plastic pollution without decreasing catch efficiency in longline fishery?
Kristine Cerbule1, Eduardo Grimaldo2, Bent Herrmann3
1UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|March 26, 2022
Summary
Biodegradable snoods in longline fishing show promise for reducing plastic pollution. Studies found no difference in catch efficiency between biodegradable and nylon snoods, suggesting a viable alternative for sustainable fisheries.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Fisheries Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Longline fishing utilizes snoods made of nylon or polyester, which contribute to marine plastic pollution when lost at sea.
- Biodegradable plastics offer a potential solution to mitigate macro- and microplastic pollution from lost fishing gear components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the risk of snood loss in Barents Sea longline fisheries targeting haddock and Atlantic cod.
- To compare the catch efficiency of biodegradable snoods against traditional nylon snoods.
Main Methods:
- Risk assessment for snood loss in a specific longline fishery.
- Comparative analysis of catch efficiency between biodegradable and nylon snoods.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in catch efficiency was observed between biodegradable and nylon snoods.
- The study provides data on the risk of snood loss in the studied fishery.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable materials are a viable alternative for snood construction in longline fisheries.
- Catch efficiency is not a limiting factor for the adoption of biodegradable snoods, supporting their use in reducing plastic pollution.
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