As environmental awareness grows, the fishing industry faces an emerging challenge: should it maintain traditional practices or adopt sustainable methods and processes that preserve the marine ecosystem? Sustainable fishing emerges as the ideal solution, offering practices that minimize environmental impact and ensure operational viability. In this article, we explore how this transformation is shaping the future of fishing.
What is Sustainable Fishing?
This type of fishing is based on practices that allow the extraction of marine resources without compromising the natural regeneration of ecosystems. Sustainable and less invasive techniques are used to achieve this, such as strict catch limits to prevent overfishing, protective measures for endangered species, and sustainable equipment like biodegradable fishing nets.
Furthermore, reducing the impact on the marine ecosystem also requires adopting more sustainable fishing gear and processes, such as biodegradable fishing nets. This holistic approach ensures that fishing operations can continue to meet the growing global demand for seafood without sacrificing the health and biodiversity of the oceans.
A New Path for the Fishing Industry
1. Biodegradable fishing nets
Biodegradable fishing nets represent a promising innovation in the fight against marine litter. These nets are made from biodegradable materials, significantly reducing the risk of marine pollution caused by lost or abandoned gear.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), it is estimated that approximately 640,000 tons of fishing nets are discarded or lost every year. In addition to mitigating pollution, biodegradable fishing nets contribute to protecting marine habitats and preserving species that often become trapped in abandoned nets.
2. Sensors and drones for monitoring
Introducing high-tech equipment for underwater monitoring marks a significant step forward in preserving marine species. Submarine sensors collect crucial data on water quality and fish school movements. On the other hand, drones equipped with filming and geolocation capabilities enable precise detection of species in specific areas.
These devices not only prevent the capture of unwanted species but also exponentially increase the efficiency of fishing operations. How? Traditionally, large commercial fishing companies rely on helicopters to locate schools of fish. However, drones offer a revolutionary, more economical, and accessible alternative to transform this process.
3. Selective fishing
This technique aims to capture only target species. By using adjusted fishing nets and hooks, fishers can avoid accidentally capturing smaller fish and species that are not relevant to the operation. This more ethical and conscientious approach is critical in preventing overfishing and protecting endangered species.
4. Monofilament fishing nets with extended durability
Monofilament fishing nets are known for their durability, making them indispensable for demanding fishing operations. Made from high-quality nylon, these nets combine strength and flexibility like no other.
But what makes them a sustainable choice? These nets are available in various dimensions and adapt to different fishing techniques and conditions. Their extended lifespan reduces the need for replacements, minimizing waste and promoting eco-friendly practices.
At Cadilhe & Santos, we manufacture high-quality monofilament fishing nets. These can be produced using our most innovative monofilament, MonCad® V55, or other polyamide and copolyamide monofilaments. With options ranging from 0.28 mm to 1.10 mm in diameter and various colors, such as white, green, and brown, we provide robust and efficient solutions to meet the demands of the fishing industry
4. Trackable fishing gear
Smart tags were developed as part of the NetTag+ project in partnership with Cadilhe & Santos. These innovative tags use sound waves to emit signals that allow lost fishing nets to be located, even in adverse conditions. This cutting-edge solution enables the tracking and recovery of equipment, reducing operational costs by minimizing the need for frequent replacements.
Sustainable fishing: an opportunity for growth?
Sustainable fishing offers undeniable advantages for the industry, promoting a balance between profitability and environmental responsibility. One key benefit is the reduction of long-term operational costs. Durable equipment and efficient methods minimize the need for frequent replacements and reduce waste, resulting in more economically viable operations. Moreover, sustainable practices help avoid fines and penalties associated with non-compliance with environmental regulations, ensuring adherence to global standards.
Another significant benefit is access to niche markets that value green and ethical practices. Consumers are increasingly aware of their products’ origin and environmental impact, favoring companies committed to preserving the environment.
The adoption of sustainable practices also drives innovation. Companies investing in green technologies, such as high-quality fishing nets or monitoring drones, stand out for adapting to industry demands and pursuing continuous improvement. This innovative mindset strengthens corporate reputation and attracts investors and strategic partnerships.
Leading the transition to sustainable practices positions companies as agents of change. This pioneering role builds trust with clients and partners while contributing to the regeneration of marine ecosystems. Sustainable fishing is more than just a solution to environmental challenges. It’s a solid and competitive growth strategy for the future.
At Cadilhe & Santos, sustainability is the cornerstone for ensuring a prosperous fishing future and preserving our oceans. We combine technological innovation, high-quality materials, and a steadfast commitment to environmental protection to provide solutions that balance efficiency and responsibility. Discover more about our efforts to reduce environmental impact.
