BlackNETs Project: Meeting with Fishermen to Solve the 'Ghost Net' Problem in the Black Sea!
A survey and awareness-raising event was conducted at Sürmene Balıklı Fishing Shelter to highlight the impact of ghost nets and Abandoned, Lost, or Otherwise Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) while collecting valuable data on the issue. The event was led by Prof. Dr. Fatma Telli Karakoç and Prof. Dr. Coşkun Erüz, with contributions from Prof. Dr. Hacer Sağlam, Dr. Neira Purwanty Ismail, and MSc student Melike Tüysüz.
During the event, 20 fishermen participated in one-on-one interviews, showing great interest by asking questions and sharing suggestions regarding the negative impacts of ghost nets and marine litter on the marine ecosystem. The fishermen actively supported the survey and expressed their willingness to contribute to the removal of ghost nets from the sea.
Additionally, this survey is being conducted with fishermen and project stakeholders from Beşikdüzü to Of in Trabzon. As part of the BlackNETs Project, the survey is also being carried out in Turkey, Romania, Bulgaria, and Georgia, involving various stakeholders such as ship crews (ranging from small boats to large vessels, professional and recreational boats), port authorities, and professional divers to gather data on the status of ALDFG.
Preliminary survey results indicate that a significant majority of fishermen support the removal of ghost nets from the sea. This initiative marks a critical step in protecting marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Note:
Click here for the KTÜ Ghost Nets and Equipment Project Fishermen’s Survey
Click here for the KTÜ Ghost Nets and Equipment Project Stakeholder Survey
11 December 2024