SEARCULAR

After three productive and busy years, SEARCULAR has come to an end.

When the project launched in September 2023, it brought together partners from 13 organisations, united in a common goal – to support clean seas and sustainable #fisheries, from deck to port. [1/4]

Sustainable management of end-of-life (EOL) #fishing gear is compulsory in the EU. However, issues relating to sorting, logistics, and traceability mean that a lot of fishing gear still ends up in landfill or incinerators. [1/3]

Together with the fishing industry, SEARCULAR has developed a new #biodegradable FAD - known as a BIOFAD - that is made entirely from natural materials such as bamboo, Paulownia wood & cotton. 1/3

SEARCULAR has developed a novel seine rope made from #biodegradable polymers with a high abrasion resistance. These ropes were tested for 6 months onboard a commercial demersal seine #fishing vessel to assess their technical feasibility, durability, & operational performance. 1/3

SEARCULAR has reconditioned end-of-life purse seine nets & given them new life by converting them into longer-lasting dolly ropes. These new ropes target the reduction of #microplastic released at sea from traditional dolly ropes reduce the number of discarded nets in ports. 1/3