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Source, fate and management of recreational fishing marine debris
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Researchers conducted the first global literature review of recreational fishing marine debris, identifying plastic and metal as dominant materials and nearshore reefs and coastal areas as both sources and sinks, while concluding that the sector's contribution to marine debris is likely underestimated and understudied.
Marine debris, directly and indirectly, threatens marine habitat and biota. Fishing activity is generally recognised as a contributor to marine debris, but the relative input from recreational fishing remains unassessed. Here we provide the first comprehensive literature review of recreational fishing marine debris (RFMD) on a global scale. A systematic literature review identified 70 studies related to RFMD, and plastic and metal respectively were the dominant debris materials found. Nearshore coastal areas and reefs, acted as both sources and sinks of RFMD and a diverse suite of potential impacts such as ghost fishing and entanglement were identified at local scales. Overall, research of RFMD is lacking globally, however, its role in marine debris input is likely underestimated. We recommend more research on the volumes and risks, using a standardised classification approach. Where intervention is required, we suggest cooperative approaches between the sector and authorities.
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Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.