University of Bath

Marine litter is considered a common concern of humankind that poses a serious risk to marine life, human health and the economy. One of the most abundant and harmful types of marine litter is abandoned, lost or otherwise discarded fishing gear. This thesis conducts a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with the retrieval and waste management of derelict fishing gear. The objective is to provide insights on the sustainability of methods used for handling such debris and to identify potential improvements in waste management practices. The methodology involves assessing various scenarios for retrieval and disposal processes, integrating data on material composition, transport, and treatment impacts. Results indicate that effective retrieval strategies can significantly mitigate the environmental damages associated with derelict fishing gear. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive policy approaches that incorporate LCA as a tool to guide future waste management strategies for fishing gear. The study concludes that addressing marine litter through LCA can enhance both environmental and economic outcomes.