A Bold Ocean Initiative Is Rewarding Fishermen to Clear Massive Debris Threat Exploring the Pacific

Quick Smiles:

• Hawaiʻi Pacific University removed over 185000 pounds of derelict fishing gear from North Pacific in three years.
• 77 fishermen seized 690 pieces turning trips into cleanups.
• Gear recycled into experimental pavement protecting reefs.

Hawaiʻi Pacific University’s Bounty Project transforms commercial fishing trips into ocean cleanups, removing derelict nets lines and floats before they harm reefs or wildlife.

Launched in November 2022 by the Center for Marine Debris Research it compensates fishermen through partnerships with Hawaiʻi Longline Association and Department of Land and Natural Resources.

One of only three efforts targeting the distant North Pacific Garbage Patch the project achieved 88% recovery within 12 hours of detection.

“It is incredible that we are now approaching 200000 pounds of gear removed from the ocean through this project”

says HPU CMDR Project Manager Katie Stevens

“and it has been great to see the enthusiasm and engagement of the commercial fishers as stewards of the ocean environment.”

“This project stands out for its innovative approach partnering with commercial fishers toward a solution. Compensating those already on the water to remove derelict fishing gear maximizes both efficiency and environmental benefit”

shared Mark Manuel NOAA Marine Debris Program’s Pacific Islands Region Coordinator.

Supported by NOAA and Ocean Conservancy 2323 pounds were recycled into a Nets-to-Roads pavement project.

“The financial reward has created friendly competition and results in a very rapid response to get the nets off of reefs to give the corals a fighting chance of survival”

commented fisherman Hank Lynch.

Help sustain this inspiring cleanup by supporting HPU CMDR and sharing these ocean success stories with friends.

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