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On the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries’ annual clean-up campaign, a record was once again set in the number of lost and remaining fishing gear that was picked up and removed from the seabed. This despite the fact that 20% less effort was put in than last year. “We hope our PingMe technology can make an important contribution to sustainable fisheries by preventing the growth of ghost fishing”, says sales manager Andreas Vie Murvold.

The Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries conducts annual sea-going clean-up expeditions for lost and remaining fishing gear, and reports that they have once again set a record in the numbers that have been taken up and removed from the seabed. During this year’s trip along the Norwegian coast and egga edge, a total of 1,637 fishing nets were removed in the period 7 August to 11 September at a depth of 50-1,400 metres. In 2023, a 20-year-old record was broken when they removed 1,339 nets, but now just one year later, this sad record has been broken by almost 300, despite 20% less clean-up efforts than last year. In addition to the fishing nets, 25,250 meters of line, various types of jigging lines, 16,500 meters of rope, 78 traps, large quantities of wakes and anchors, as well as 8,400 meters of spinning wad rope were taken up and removed on this year’s voyage. In addition, over 5,000 trawl fishing components were recorded and approx. 300 square meters of netlines. The Norwegian Fisheries Directorate’s Environment Section is satisfied with the results of this year’s trip, but says it is disturbing that there has never before been so much fishing gear left and lost in the sea.

Although the annual expeditions for removal of lost and abandoned fishing gear are a very important contribution to reducing marine litter and ghost fishing, the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries’ action plan against marine litter has the vision of reducing the need for clean-up in the future. This will largely depend on good, preventive measures to reduce the growth of ghost fishing equipment, and here, the biggest contribution must come from the fishermen themselves. Not only are they obliged to report the loss of fishing gear, but also to carry out their own recovery attempts. Such work is very challenging and resource-intensive, because nets and fishing gear that you lose the connection to from the surface are completely subject to waves and ocean currents. This means that lost gear can potentially end up far away from the location where it was lost. In addition to a very large search radius, searching for something underwater at depth requires remotely controlled vessels and tools in the million class, often with specially trained pilots. The way to solve this problem is therefore to develop technical solutions that better enable the fisherman to find lost gear, and also to increase the use of degradable solutions in fishing gear.

«We see that better and more robust fishing nets are being developed in degradable materials, and that the use of fishing nets with rotting wire is fortunately increasing,” says sales manager at Ocean Space Acoustics in Trondheim, Andreas Vie Murvold. “But this development takes time, and certainly not all types of fishing gear can be produced in degradable materials. By marking the fishing gear with an underwater acoustic PingMe sensor from us, you can get it to send its position up to the ship should it be lost. We have made the PingMe sensor small and light, and it can easily be hooked onto the net, line or trawl bag with a carabiner. The PingMe sensor can withstand a depth of 1,000 metres, a range of 2 kilometers, and has a battery life of up to 2 years if lost. During active fishing, PingMe can also log temperature data which can contribute to more precise fishing so that fishermen fill their quota faster. This saves them fuel, which in turn is a plus for the environment.”

«We know that our technology can make an important contribution to finding fishing equipment that has gone astray, and in that way reduce the number of death traps for animals in the sea», says Andreas Murvold. 

In the evolving landscape of global fisheries, the Irish snow crab fishing industry is at a crossroads. The increasing need for sustainable practices coupled with the rapid advancement of technology is reshaping the industry. This transformation is driven by environmental considerations and a focus on ensuring the industry’s longevity and economic viability.

The global decline in snow crab populations, particularly noted in regions like Alaska, underscores the urgency of sustainable fishing practices. This worrying trend highlights the delicate balance needed in managing crab fisheries to prevent similar situations in other parts of the world, including Ireland.

Innovative technologies are revolutionizing the way fishing industries operate. For example, in Canada, wave gliders are being used to track the extensive movements of snow crabs, as reported by Hydro International. This technology not only provides more accurate monitoring but also paves the way for more informed and sustainable fishing practices. Such advancements offer valuable lessons and opportunities for the Irish snow crab fishing industry to enhance efficiency and resource management.

The Irish fishing industry, with its rich history and current challenges, is adapting to these global trends. The Fishing Daily provides insights into the evolution of the industry in Ireland, highlighting the importance of staying abreast of both environmental concerns and market demands.

Sustainability is increasingly at the forefront of the fishing industry’s agenda. Initiatives like the Fishery Improvement Project in Canada, which focuses on reducing whale entanglements and achieving sustainable seafood, offer models that could be adapted by the Irish industry. These initiatives, as detailed on Snow Crab Zone 12, demonstrate the industry’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the adoption of new technologies.

The future of the Irish snow crab fishing industry hinges on its ability to integrate sustainable practices with technological innovation. Embracing these changes is essential not only for the health of marine ecosystems but also for the industry’s economic sustainability and resilience.

The Snow Crab Zone 12 fishery in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada, exemplifies how advanced gear tracking technologies and sustainable practices can significantly improve operations. Historically, this fishery faced substantial challenges with lost gear and whale entanglements. However, by adopting real-time GPS tracking and satellite communication systems, they have drastically reduced gear loss and minimized ghost fishing.

Additionally, the implementation of wave gliders equipped with acoustic sensors has enabled more precise tracking of snow crab movements and fishing gear. This technology has not only enhanced operational efficiency but also contributed to significant environmental benefits by reducing marine mammal entanglements.

One of the standout success outcomes of these initiatives has been the positive impact on whale populations. The adoption of technologies that reduce the risk of entanglement has helped in the recovery and protection of endangered species like the North Atlantic right whale. NOAA Fisheries has reported that efforts to mitigate gear entanglements are critical to the conservation of these vulnerable whale populations. By implementing these technologies, Snow Crab Zone 12 has seen a reduction in whale entanglement incidents, contributing to the gradual reinvigoration of whale stocks in the region.

Economically, the Snow Crab Zone 12 fishery has reaped substantial rewards from these technological advancements. The reduced costs associated with gear replacement and the ability to demonstrate sustainable fishing practices have enhanced marketability and opened new opportunities for premium pricing in sustainability-conscious markets.

Incorporating advanced gear tracking technology, such as PingMe, is a game-changer for the fishing industry. It enhances operational efficiency, reduces environmental impact, and offers substantial economic benefits. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing these technologies will be crucial for maintaining profitability and sustainability.We at OSAC are always looking for like-minded individuals and organizations with projects focused on research aimed at improving our oceans. If you are working on such a project, we would be very happy to hear from you. Let’s collaborate to create sustainable and innovative solutions that ensure the health of our marine ecosystems and the viability of the fishing industry for future generations. Reach out to us to share your initiatives and explore opportunities for partnership.

Our product PingMe is designed to address some of the most pressing challenges faced by marine ecosystems and the fishing industry today. The innovative solution offers a promising path to a sustainable future, balancing necessary fishing practices with the urgent need to protect our oceanic frontiers.

Bridging the Gap Between Industry and Conservation The dichotomy between commercial fishing practices and marine conservation efforts has long been a subject of contention. However, PingMe’s advanced location tracking technology is proving to be a game-changer, demonstrating that the coexistence of productive fishing operations and robust conservation strategies is not only possible but also mutually beneficial.

Combatting the Ghost Gear Phenomenon One of the most critical issues in marine conservation is the menace of ghost gear—lost or abandoned fishing equipment that continues to trap and kill marine life indiscriminately. PingMe addresses this challenge head-on by enabling fishermen to easily track and retrieve their gear. This capability not only reduces the environmental impact of ghost fishing but also cuts down on economic losses, making sustainable practices more appealing to the fishing industry.

Enhancing Marine Wildlife Conservation Beyond its applications in commercial fishing, PingMe is a powerful tool for wildlife researchers and conservationists. The technology’s precision tracking facilitates the study of migratory patterns, habitat use, and behavior of marine species, providing invaluable data that informs conservation strategies and protective measures. By understanding the movements and needs of marine wildlife, efforts to preserve biodiversity can be more targeted and effective.

Promoting Sustainable Fishing Practices Sustainability in fishing is not just about reducing bycatch or avoiding overfishing; it’s also about ensuring that the industry can continue to thrive without depleting its primary resource. PingMe’s tracking data offers critical insights for managing fisheries more sustainably, allowing for the implementation of practices that protect vulnerable species and habitats while ensuring the long-term viability of fishing communities.

Fostering Transparency and Compliance Transparency is crucial in the push for sustainable marine practices, and PingMe contributes significantly in this area. By providing verifiable data on the location and movement of fishing gear, PingMe helps ensure compliance with regulations designed to protect marine ecosystems. This transparency is key to building trust between stakeholders and fostering an environment where sustainable practices are standard.

Conclusion The journey towards a sustainable future for our oceans is fraught with challenges, but with innovations like PingMe, we are equipped to navigate these waters more effectively. By marrying the needs of commercial fishing with the imperatives of marine conservation, PingMe is not just a technological achievement; it’s a beacon of hope for a balanced and sustainable relationship with our oceans. As we continue to explore and depend on the marine environment, technologies like PingMe will play a crucial role in ensuring that this vital resource is protected and preserved for generations to come.

In the quest for more sustainable and efficient fishing practices, technology plays a pivotal role. Among the innovative tools revolutionizing the industry, PingMe stands out as a game-changer, especially in the niche but lucrative snow crab fishing sector. This sensor system is not just a tool for finding lost fishing gear; it’s a beacon guiding fishermen to the ideal habitats of snow crabs, creatures that thrive in specific cold-water conditions.

Understanding Snow Crab Habitats

Snow crabs, known for their delicate flavor and significant commercial value, prefer deep and cold-water environments. They thrive in temperatures ranging from a chilly -1°C to a moderate 6°C. This narrow temperature range presents a challenge for fishermen: how to locate these elusive crustaceans in the vast and variable oceanic landscape?

PingMe: A Technological Boon

Enter PingMe, a sophisticated sensor system that offers real-time data on ocean conditions, including temperature and location. By attaching these sensors to fishing gear, fishermen can now access vital information that leads them directly to the areas most likely to be inhabited by snow crabs.

How PingMe Enhances Fishing Efficiency

The primary advantage of using PingMe in snow crab fishing is its precision. Traditional methods relied heavily on guesswork and experience, often leading to time-consuming and fruitless searches. With PingMe, fishermen can pinpoint areas within the ideal temperature range, reducing the time and resources spent in unproductive waters.

Moreover, this precision directly contributes to sustainability. By targeting specific areas, fishermen can avoid overfishing in regions where snow crabs are scarce, reducing their ecological footprint and adhering to conservation guidelines.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The economic benefits of using PingMe are clear. Higher efficiency leads to better catches and, consequently, higher profits. But perhaps more importantly, the environmental impact is profound. Precision fishing means less bycatch and less disturbance to marine ecosystems, aligning commercial interests with environmental stewardship.

As the fishing industry continues to evolve, tools like PingMe are at the forefront of this transformation. For snow crab fishermen, this technology is not just about catching more; it’s about catching smarter. By harnessing the power of ocean space acoustics, PingMe is helping to chart a course towards a more sustainable and profitable future in fishing.

Successful fishing is as much an art as it is a science. Beyond the simple act of casting a net or line lies an understanding of the marine environment. While experience and intuition have always been the fisherman’s trusted allies, we now stand on the cusp of a new era where precision meets intuition.

PingMe embodies this merger. More than just a tool, it revolutionizes the fishing experience by offering real-time insights into where gear lands, its active fishing position, and, crucially, the surrounding marine conditions. In this way, PingMe is not just about enhancing productivity—it’s about empowering fishermen with informed decision-making.

By harnessing this immediate oceanic data, decisions on gear placement become less about guesswork and more about strategic positioning. Fishermen can now confidently navigate to areas with optimal conditions, maximizing their chances for a bountiful catch. This precision naturally leads to reduced wasted efforts, ensuring resources—both time and gear—are judiciously utilized.

The sustainable promise of PingMe goes further. Targeted fishing based on specific conditions means less strain on fish populations, promoting healthier ecosystems. Add to this the advantage of always knowing where one’s equipment is. The vastness of the ocean has often posed challenges with gear misplacement, but with PingMe, such concerns are a thing of the past. This not only means reduced equipment losses but also a significant step in addressing the environmental concern of ghost fishing.

Anticipating future fishing trips is now more precise than ever. The data logging feature of PingMe acts as a bridge, connecting past successes to future endeavors. Patterns emerge, insights crystallize, and the age-old wisdom of the seas is now complemented with data-driven strategies.

In conclusion, Ocean Space Acoustics, while rooted in tradition, firmly believes in forward momentum. PingMe stands as a testament to this, a beacon of innovation in a world where tradition and technology converge for a sustainable, prosperous future.

The silent menace of ghost fishing, caused by abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), is a persistent challenge faced by marine ecosystems across the globe. The Global Ghost Gear Initiative (GGGI) was established to tackle this issue head-on. Since its inception, the GGGI has celebrated numerous successes, showcasing a resolute commitment to making the oceans healthier and more sustainable.

A Global Alliance
Founded in 2015, the GGGI is a unique alliance that combines the expertise of governments, NGOs, fishing industry stakeholders, academics, and others. Its mission is clear: reduce the ecological and economic impacts of ALDFG.

Successes in Building Evidence
Understanding the problem is the first step toward solving it. The GGGI has been instrumental in:

Data Collection: Gathering vital information about the scope and scale of ghost fishing globally.
Research Collaboration: Working with academic institutions to understand the full environmental and economic consequences of ghost gear.
Hotspot Identification: Pinpointing areas with significant ALDFG problems, enabling targeted interventions.
Prevention and Best Practices
Stopping the problem before it starts is a key focus for the GGGI. Successes in this area include:

Industry Engagement: Collaborating with the fishing industry to develop and implement best practices in gear management.
Regulatory Guidance: Providing input into international standards and regulations to prevent gear loss.
Innovative Gear Design: Supporting the development of biodegradable or traceable fishing gear to minimize long-term harm.
Gear Recovery and Recycling
The GGGI’s successes in gear recovery and recycling are monumental:

Large-scale Retrieval Operations: Organizing and supporting efforts to remove ghost gear from heavily affected areas.
Recycling Initiatives: Developing recycling networks to transform retrieved fishing gear into new products, thus creating sustainable and circular solutions.
Community Engagement: Working with local communities to foster awareness and active participation in ghost gear removal.
A Catalyst for Global Change
Through international collaboration and leadership, the GGGI has:

Fostered Partnerships: Bringing together diverse stakeholders to work collectively towards a common goal.
Influenced Policy: Shaping international regulations and agreements to address ALDFG.
Inspired Action: Acting as a global advocate for change, raising awareness, and promoting solutions to the ghost fishing problem.
Conclusion
The Global Ghost Gear Initiative’s successes in combatting ghost fishing are a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and determination. From understanding the issue to preventing gear loss, and from recovery to recycling, the GGGI’s multifaceted approach has made tangible strides in the fight against one of the ocean’s most insidious threats. The path forward remains challenging, but the GGGI’s continued leadership provides a beacon of hope for the health of our oceans and the sustainable future of global fisheries.

Norway has gained recognition for its commitment to sustainable fisheries management and environmental conservation. One notable initiative undertaken by the Norwegian government is the annual fishing gear recovery program. This program aims to combat ghost fishing by actively retrieving lost or abandoned fishing gear from Norwegian waters. In this article, we delve into the key features and successes of Norway’s annual fishing gear recovery program, while also exploring the potential impact of integrating the PingMe system into their efforts.

Program Objectives and Scope: The primary objective of Norway’s annual fishing gear recovery program is to locate and recover abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), including nets, lines, and traps, which can contribute to ghost fishing. The program strives to reduce marine pollution, protect marine species, and ensure the sustainability of fisheries by removing gear that poses a threat to the marine ecosystem.

Collaboration and Partnerships: The success of the fishing gear recovery program relies on strong collaboration between government agencies, fishing industry stakeholders, and environmental organizations. The Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries coordinates the program in partnership with local municipalities, fishing vessel owners, and volunteer divers. Through this collaboration, a comprehensive and efficient effort is made to retrieve ghost gear from various coastal and offshore areas.

Implementation and Methodology: The fishing gear recovery program is typically carried out during specific periods, such as the summer months when favorable weather conditions facilitate diving and vessel operations. While the program primarily relies on self-reported coordinates of lost gear, there is potential for improvement by incorporating innovative systems like PingMe. By integrating the PingMe system, which utilizes advanced tracking technology, the program can enhance its ability to locate and recover lost gear more efficiently.

Responsible Disposal and Recycling: Recovered fishing gear is handled responsibly to minimize environmental impact. The Norwegian government emphasizes the importance of proper disposal methods, including recycling whenever feasible. Recycling programs ensure that recovered gear is repurposed into raw materials, contributing to waste reduction and the promotion of a circular economy.

Positive Environmental Impacts: Norway’s annual fishing gear recovery program has made significant strides in mitigating the impact of ghost fishing. By actively removing ghost gear from the marine environment, the program helps safeguard marine life from entanglement and habitat destruction. Moreover, it reduces the risk of marine pollution caused by the degradation of fishing gear materials.

The Potential of PingMe: As part of ongoing efforts to enhance the fishing gear recovery program, integrating innovative tracking systems like PingMe can offer substantial benefits. By leveraging PingMe’s advanced tracking technology, the program can potentially increase the recovery rate of lost gear to 100%. The real-time tracking capabilities of PingMe would streamline the process of locating and retrieving gear, saving time and fuel costs while ensuring more effective results.

Norway’s annual fishing gear recovery program serves as a commendable example of proactive measures to combat ghost fishing and protect marine ecosystems. Through collaboration, effective implementation, and responsible disposal practices, the program has successfully reduced the negative impacts of lost or abandoned fishing gear. By embracing innovative tracking solutions like PingMe, the program can further optimize its efforts, increasing the recovery rate and efficiency of gear retrieval. Norway’s commitment to preserving its marine resources sets an inspiring precedent for other countries seeking to protect their valuable natural ecosystems.

Stiftelsen Nor-Fishings Innovasjonspris 2022