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Assessing fishing gear disposal practices in coastal communities from the Gulf of Guinea and the implications on the sustainability of the blue economy
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Researchers surveyed artisanal fishers in Nigeria's Niger Delta and found that while most reuse old fishing gear, 18% burn it openly and 16% dump it indiscriminately — with 92% unaware of the environmental risks, highlighting a critical gap in ocean literacy that threatens marine biodiversity and the blue economy.
We investigated fishing gear disposal practices in coastal communities from the Gulf of Guinea and examined the implications for coastal and marine ecosystems and the blue economy. Using a mixed research method and purposive sampling, data were collected from artisanal fishers in island communities in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. Females between 41 and 50 years with secondary education dominated the group compared to males. Gillnets, with an average lifespan of one year, were the dominant gear type. Disposal methods include reuse (66%), open burning (18%) and indiscriminate dumping (16%). Notably, 92% of fishers were unaware of the environmental risks of improper gear disposal, highlighting a significant gap in environmental education. Reported impacts include gear entanglement, navigation hazards, and ghost fishing. These practices contribute to coastal and marine pollution, threaten biodiversity and undermine sustainable fisheries. Addressing these challenges requires targeted awareness campaigns, ocean literacy programmes, recycling infrastructure, and stronger regulatory oversight.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.