Abstract
Current gear—nets, ropes, pipes, and traps—often contains mixed polymers and metals, making recycling difficult. Mechanical and chemical recycling offer solutions, though contamination and complex constructions remain barriers. Case studies from Norway and Iceland show progress in circular value chains, supported by collaborative initiatives and improved waste handling. Biodegradable materials such as PBAT, PBSAT, PHA, and cotton twine show promise in reducing ghost fishing and microplastics, though challenges remain regarding durability, cost, and variable degradation in marine environments.
Demersal fisheries—particularly bottom trawls and demersal seines—produce significant microplastic pollution through abrasion and wear during normal operation. In Norway, these gears are responsible for over 70% of landings but are also the largest contributors of microplastics generated by fisheries. Their global use amplifies their environmental impact, as fragmented plastic debris contributes to marine litter, ecological harm, and ghost fishing. Replacing conventional fossil based polymers with more abrasion resistant or biodegradable materials could substantially reduce pollution. However, biodegradable plastics require separate collection, and existing recycling technologies are limited, meaning such materials often end up incinerated—conflicting with circular economy goals. Despite these constraints, biodegradable polymers still represent a promising alternative for reducing long term plastic accumulation in demersal fisheries. (directly taken from the abstract)