To combat ocean plastic pollution, scientists in Norway are developing biodegradable fishing gear that naturally degrades without releasing harmful microplastics.

They aim to replace conventional synthetic ropes, nets, and lines – materials that can remain for centuries, entangling marine life and disrupting ecosystems.

Lost and discarded fishing gear, known as “ghost fishing gear,” is a major contributor to plastic pollution in the ocean. As these materials break down, they form microplastics contaminating marine food chains.

Image: Edrin Spahiu, Unsplash