Abandoned fishing nets yield a resurgence of nylon material
In a remarkable initiative to combat marine pollution, Healthy Seas, a non-profit organization turned foundation, has been working tirelessly for the past decade to clean the world's oceans of lost and abandoned fishing gear, often referred to as "ghost nets." These harmful debris pose a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems.
The organization's efforts extend beyond simple cleanup activities. In partnership with Aquafil, a textile industry recycling company, Healthy Seas has transformed the collected waste into ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon used by global brands in the production of their sustainable products. Brands such as Gucci, Dior, Speedo, Arena, Patagonia, Burberry, and Adidas have adopted ECONYL®, fostering a circular economy that reduces demand for virgin nylon and lowers environmental impact.
The seabed cleanup along the Istrian coast, Croatia, is a testament to Healthy Seas' relentless dedication. During this operation, a group of 12 divers recovered a catch consisting of two fixed nets, one crab trap, a cage, a rusty anchor, piles of net remnants, and three tires. This cleanup marked the tenth anniversary of Healthy Seas and expanded its activities to new areas along the Istrian coast.
Healthy Seas' mission is not confined to the ocean floor. The educational aspect is an essential part of their work, focusing on raising environmental awareness in children and young people. Their activities have multiplied to over two hundred worldwide, with volunteers from twenty countries participating.
Prevention is another key aspect of Healthy Seas' mission, aiming to raise awareness among fishermen and promote sustainable fishing practices. Fishermen are viewed as partners in the solution to the problem, not enemies. This approach has proven effective, as Healthy Seas has collected over 900 tons of lost and abandoned fishing gear in the past ten years, with about half of that waste processed by Aquafil's plants.
Healthy Seas' innovative partnership with Aquafil and their commitment to marine conservation and sustainable recycling technologies make them a notable model in the environmental non-profit sector. Their work is paving the way for a future where ocean waste is transformed into eco-friendly consumer goods, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable world.
- Environmental-science students can learn about Healthy Seas, a non-profit organization that transforms collected ghost nets into sustainable products like clothing and home furnishings, promoting sustainable living and reducing demand for virgin nylon.
- By adopting products made from ECONYL®, a regenerated nylon produced by the partnership between Healthy Seas and Aquafil, homeowners can choose eco-friendly options for their home-and-garden items, contributing to a cleaner environment.
- Instead of contributing to waste and pollution, fishermen can partner with Healthy Seas to follow sustainable fishing practices, ensuring a more sustainable lifestyle and conserving the environment for future generations.
