Methods for Ghost Gear Detection

Abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), collectively and commonly known as ‘Ghost Gear’, is a major threat to marine life.

The World Wildlife Fund for Nature, India (WWF-India) commissioned us to examine existing technological solutions for ghost gear identification, and to recommend appropriate methods for their detection in Indian waters.

We reviewed the available literature on the subject and conducted interviews with experts, following which we used a deliberative process to synthesise information and provide recommendations. Our final report was shared with our client to assist with their planning processes, and with selected conservation practitioners who we felt could make best use of it.

We re-opened this project in September 2021, and are currently in the process of updating our research and preparing a manuscript for publication in a peer-reviewed journal. Our intention is for this paper to assist with the mapping of target areas for ghost gear removal, thus reducing the threat to marine wildlife. Dr. Meredith Palmer joined us as a research consultant on this project in November 2021.