Material flow analysis of commercial fishing gears in Taiwan

Marine debris is an international environmental issue, and the growing amount of abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) is a particular concern. Despite Taiwan's substantial fishing industry, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of fishing gear. This work conducted a static material flow analysis to estimate the flows and the stocks of fishing gear in Taiwan in 2020, based on government statistics and in-terviews with fishing gears producing companies, fishermen, and recycling companies. Our findings reveal that the inflow, outflow, and stock of the fishing gears are 8,846 t/a, 4,271 t/a, and 4,575 t/a, respectively. Only 36 % of end-of-life fishing gear is recycled, while the rest is incinerated or landfilled. Additionally, the stock comprises 27 % in use, 23 % in ports, and 50 % entering the ocean. These results underscore the need to increase recycling capacity, prevent loss in oceans, and promote repairs to extend the lifespan of fishing gear.

Automated summary

This study conducted a static material flow analysis to estimate the flows and stocks of fishing gear in Taiwan in 2020. The inflow, outflow, and stock of fishing gears were found to be 8,846 t/a, 4,271 t/a, and 4,575 t/a, respectively. Only 36% of end-of-life fishing gear is recycled, and the rest is either incinerated or landfilled. The need to increase recycling capacity, prevent gear loss in the ocean, and promote gear repairs to extend their lifespan is emphasized.