Impact of Trap-Net Fishery on Marine Pollution and Solutions

Current data on the impact of "ghost nets" on the biological diversity of the Baltic Sea indicate that no comprehensive inventory has yet been conducted of their proportion in the region, nor have methods been developed to assess it. The results of the study showed that net fishing is one of the main causes of gear loss, as nets are often lost due to storms and strong currents. These derelict fishing gears remain active for long periods of time, accidentally catching fish, marine mammals and other organisms. In addition, the nets of some materials gradually break down, forming microplastics that enter the food chain and negatively affect both the marine ecosystem and human health. In order to effectively reduce the negative impact of riser fishing, their effectiveness largely depends on the participation of fishermen and public awareness. In the future, it is essential to develop new sustainable fishing gear and improve international cooperation to ensure responsible and environmentally friendly fishing in the Baltic Sea.