(Kaohsiung, Taiwan) December 19th, 2023 – FCF Co., Ltd. (FCF), a leading entity in the global seafood industry, orchestrated its highly anticipated International Symposium on Fisheries Sustainability this year, featuring esteemed speakers Dr. Lauriane Escalle, Senior Scientist at the Pacific Community (SPC), and Dr. Hilario Murua, Senior Scientist at the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF). The Symposium served as a platform for the exchange of knowledge and insights into sustainable fishing practices. During their visit to Taiwan, these distinguished scientists engaged in comprehensive discussions with three major Taiwanese fishing net and gear companies, delving into the realm of environmentally friendly fishing devices and exploring potential avenues for future collaborations.
In the discourse surrounding marine environmental sustainability, particular emphasis has been placed on addressing the pervasive issue of Abandoned Lost or Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) and “ghost gear”. Drifting Fish Aggregating Devices (dFADs) commonly use purse seine nets in their construction and many plastic components. The impacts associated to the use of plastic and netting in dFADs’ construction are entanglement of marine fauna, impacts on vulnerable ecosystem such as coral reef and marine debris. Therefore, the development of the non-entangling and biodegradable dFADs are regarded as an important part of the fishery sustainability.
Recognizing the paramount importance of addressing the collective challenge posed by ALDFG and ghost gear, FCF initiated a collaborative effort with SPC and ISSF, becoming an active participant in the non-entangling and biodegradable dFADs”trial. FCF extends its support to Dr. Lauriane Escalle and her esteemed scientific team, contributing to the deployment of experimental non-entangling and biodegradable dFADs, “Jelly-FADs, and facilitating the collection of invaluable information and feedback. The overarching objective is to craft fishing device that not only meets operational requirements but also aligns with the highest standards of environmental sustainability.
Concurrently with the conference, FCF seized the opportunity to orchestrate engagements between Dr. Escalle, Dr. Murua, and three major Taiwanese fishing gear companies. These discussions were centered around the exploration of biodegradable materials such as cotton / husk / straw / hemp ropes, and cotton canvas or any other natural parts, with a keen focus on identifying biodegradable materials that align with the overarching vision of the project. The aim is to enhance the current design of dFADs and contribute to the broader discourse on sustainable fishing practices.
FCF eagerly anticipates leveraging these comprehensive discussions to foster more collaborative opportunities. Through a concerted effort with various stakeholders in the industry, FCF aims to pragmatically advance marine environmental improvement, effectively addressing the root causes of ALDFG and ghost gear generation.
