Technology and recycling, nets collected by artisanal fishers in the north are transformed into plastic wood

The struggle against ghost fishing and marine pollution on the coasts of Peru continues to have a good outlook. Since the start of the project in 2021, six net collection stands have been installed in Piura (Los Órganos, Máncora and Cabo Blanco), Lambayeque (San José), Lima (Vegueta) and Tumbes (Cancas). The Vegueta, Cancas and Cabo Blanco stands, which are the most recent, have been in operation for approximately a year and a half.

 

In 2023, field support efforts continued, including personalized talks, visits and workshops with fishermen, where information was provided on the problems of ghost fishing, marine pollution and the correct collection of nets. Approximately 100 fishers actively participate in these activities in their respective communities.

 

“Since the beginning of the project, around 5.7 tons of nets have been collected, thanks to the effort and commitment of artisanal fishers from the 6 communities. In addition, transformation tests have been carried out with different technologies, with plastic wood being the most recent effort that brought tangible results,” explained Julia Maturrano, project leader.

 

In that context, 1.8 tons of nets were transformed into plastic wood. This material was used as one of the main inputs to manufacture 30 benches and 15 garbage cans, which were delivered to the fishers associations of Los Órganos, Máncora, Cabo Blanco, Cancas and Punta Mero.

 

Maturrano added that synergy opportunities have been identified with the municipalities of these communities to ensure the continuity and sustainability of the project, through support for the collection of house-to-house nets.

 

WWF will continue its efforts to identify and take advantage of opportunities to transform fishing nets, thus contributing to marine conservation and the well-being of fishing communities on the Peruvian coast.