Towards G7 action to combat ghost fishing gear
A background report prepared for the 2021 G7 Presidency of the United Kingdom
This report provides in-depth analysis of the drivers, impacts and best practices
to address ghost fishing gear. It places the issues of abandoned, lost, or otherwise
discarded fishing gear within the larger context of marine plastic pollution. Ghost
gear is particularly harmful because it negatively affects fisheries, non-target species
(e.g. entanglement of wildlife), habitats, navigational safety, and coastal tourism.
As a significant source of marine pollution, ghost fishing gear contributes to environmental
and health risks of plastic pollution. The report identifies good practices and policies
to prevent gear loss, reduce its impacts, and to recover lost gear. It reviews current
policy efforts at the international level and in G7 countries and recommends a comprehensive
policy response through international co-operation and circular economy approaches.
Published on May 21, 2021
In series:OECD Environment Policy Papersview more titles