Shiftplastics

In the Shift-Plastics project, we will look at the handling of plastics within fisheries and aquaculture.

Globally, the fishing and aquaculture sector emits a large amount of waste, including plastic. Studies show that in Norway, plastic waste from the fishing and aquaculture sector accounts for the majority of plastic waste in the ocean. Plastic pollution in the ocean has serious consequences for nature and the environment, especially because the plastic is broken down into micro- and nanoplastics that fish and animals ingest. The project will look at the most complex challenges in waste management, such as how to handle products that combine different materials - for example, ropes with a steel core and copper-impregnated nets.

Seven research institutions are involved in Shift-Plastics. They have expertise in technology, policy and circular value chains. In addition, 20 stakeholders from equipment manufacturers, industry, the recycling industry, public enterprises and interest groups.

The researchers will look at how technologically one can solve challenges related to “problematic” plastic equipment. For example, it is about better and more optimal ways to recycle and about using new materials, such as bioplastics. The researchers will also delve into how policies and instruments can change material use, increase the lifespan of products and ensure reuse and recycling. Finding solutions and new ways of doing things requires close cooperation between researchers, governments, interest organizations and industry.

Through collaboration, the project will find solutions and products that can reduce environmental impact, while also being economically viable.

Reports

Reports from the project