Sustainable Reuse Solutions presented at the Marine Synergy Forum, organized by KPR; 16.04.2026

Walking along the Latvian coastline, end-of-life and lost fishing gear can often be found washed ashore. Lost during fishing activities, these materials have become a significant source of marine pollution, posing risks to marine ecosystems and degrading coastal environments. Addressing this challenge, stakeholders are actively seeking innovative and sustainable solutions for the reuse and recycling of end-of-life and lost fishing gear. Approaches range from repurposing materials for new practical or creative applications to processing them into secondary raw materials, contributing to circular economy principles.

The presence of such fishing gear along the coastline highlights a pressing environmental issue and underlines the need for coordinated action. Effective solutions require close cooperation between public authorities, environmental organizations, industry representatives, and local communities to prevent further pollution and unlock the potential of these materials as valuable resources.

A practical example of such an approach was demonstrated at the International Marine Synergy Forum, organized by the Kurzeme Planning Region on April 16 2026 in Liepāja at the “Great Amber” Concert Hall. Prepared end-of-life fishing nets, specifically collected and processed for the event, were integrated into the stage design, showcasing how these materials can be repurposed in a creative and visible way. The forum brought together experts, policymakers, and industry professionals to discuss key topics including marine environment protection, offshore wind energy, and aquaculture, highlighting the importance of integrated and multifunctional approaches to sustainable marine development.

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