A SECOND OPPORTUNITY FOR FISHING GEAR
Between 4.6 and 12.7 million tons of marine litter are dumped into our seas and oceans every year. Although most of it comes from land activities, the data indicate that maritime activities are, increasingly, an important source of waste. In fact, 10% of marine litter corresponds to fishing gear that has either been abandoned, lost, or discarded by vessels.
We know that the consequences caused by this gear on the marine environment and on human well-being are enormous… but, why not propose collecting them and giving them a second opportunity?
What is Saretu?
The SARETU project arises from the collaboration between science and industry, with the aim of providing a solution to the problems of rejected fishing gear through the circular economy. Our objective: to collect and recycle rejected tuna nets stored at the port of Seychelles, the base port for the fishing activity of large Basque tuna vessels that fish in the Indian Ocean.
This project has been fostered by the Bermeo Tuna World Capital Association, which, in this pilot phase, has the collaboration of the Basque tuna fishing company, Echebastar (which provides the project with discarded nets), AZTI Technology Centre (which develops the pilot project), and TERNUA (which produces and transforms the fishing nets into final textile garments). This initiative also seeks to lay the foundations for the development of a local industry engaged in recycling fishing gear.
How do we do this?
Storage
Once the purse-seine tuna nets have reached the end of their life cycle, they are discarded and stored at the port of Seychelles.
Conditioning
The nets are recovered and conditioned for recycling.
Recycling
When ready, they are mechanically recycled to convert them into ECONYL® thread.
Production
The final thread is the result of mixing the recycled fishing nets with other recycled materials (like carpets). Finally, the fabrics are created and afterwards, the garment design and development processes begin.
What do we produce with the recycled nets?
Bum bags
Versatile, comfortable, and light ,for use in activities such as trekking, hiking, travelling.
Visors
Light and comfortable, highly breathable, recommended for use in activities such as trekking, hiking, travelling or urban use.
Backpacks
Sack-type, very versatile and suitable for any daily activity.
Environmental report
3 670 Kg
of nets
130 932 Kg*
of CO2
*Equivalent
61 829 Kg
of oil*
*Equivalent
Project promoted by
In collaboration with
