COREEL Latvian Advisory Group advances sustainable fishing gear management; 16.06.2026

On 16 June 2026, the first Advisory Group meeting of the COREEL project in Latvia brought together public authorities, researchers, NGOs, and sector experts to review project progress and discuss solutions for locating, recovering, and managing abandoned fishing gear in the Baltic Sea.

Project partners presented key achievements, including the assessment of Latvian small ports, the selection of Roja and Salacgrīva as pilot ports, identification of fishing gear hotspots in the Gulf of Riga, a workshop on reusing end-of-life fishing gear, and preparations for recovery operations.

Discussions focused on the use of innovative technologies such as sonar, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), drones, and artificial intelligence to improve the detection and recovery of lost fishing gear. Participants also highlighted the importance of cooperation with research organisations, diving companies, recycling partners, and responsible authorities, including early coordination where cultural heritage sites may be affected.

The meeting provided valuable recommendations that will support the next phase of the COREEL project and strengthen cross-border cooperation to reduce marine pollution in the Baltic Sea.

Anete Jansone
Head of Project COREEL, Kurzeme Planning Region
anete.jansone@kurzemesregions.lv