The Hidden Dangers of Ghost Fishing Gear: An Insightful Talk by Fathoms Free

In a compelling effort to address the often-overlooked issue of ghost fishing gear polluting our oceans, Looe Marine Conservation Group and Your Shore Network are hosting an informative talk titled “The Plight of Ghost Fishing Gear in Our Oceans”.

Scheduled for Tuesday, 19 March, at 6.15pm, the event will be held upstairs at the RNLI Looe Lifeboat Station, where attendees will be enlightened by the experiences and efforts of John Kent, the Chair of Fathoms Free. This dedicated group, consisting of marine conservationists and divers, is on the front lines, tackling the challenge of abandoned and lost fishing gear that litter our shores and seabed.

Fathoms Free has been instrumental in collecting various forms of ghost fishing gear, including nets, crab pots, and hooks. Remarkably, some of these items have the potential to endure underwater for hundreds of years, not only polluting our waters but also posing severe risks to marine life through entanglement. John’s talk aims to shed light on the critical work being carried out by Fathoms Free, focusing on the removal of this debris, raising public awareness, and the innovative steps they implement to recycle these harmful materials.

In addition to the talk, the evening will transition into the Looe Marine Conservation Group’s in-person monthly meeting, which is open to all attendees. The organisation emphasises that while the event is free to attend, donations are encouraged to support the conservation efforts. For individuals under 18 wishing to attend, it is required they be accompanied by an adult.

The Looe Marine Conservation Group urges interested individuals to stay informed on the latest event details through their website and Facebook page, and for any queries, contact is welcomed via email. This event not only aims to educate and inspire but also to foster a community spirit dedicated to the protection and preservation of our marine environment.

Find the event page on Facebook here