TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Pingtung County Government has launched a program to recycle used fishing nets, offering fishermen NT$15 per kilogram to reduce marine pollution.
The initiative is designed to strengthen the collection and recycling of disused fishing nets, transforming them into reusable materials as part of a circular economy. The program is open to all fishermen registered in Pingtung County, with a collection target of 20 tonnes, according to a press release.
Temporary collection sites have been established at the Donggang District Fishermen's Association, Shuili Village Fishing Port, Wenfeng Fishing Port, and Fangliao Fishing Port. For fishing ports without designated collection sites, fishermen can arrange pickup or delivery by contacting Tajen University of Science and Technology's recycling service hotline (0970-233-322).
Pingtung County Marine and Fisheries Management Office said improperly discarded fishing nets can drift into the ocean, becoming marine debris that entangles marine life. Officials said the incentive program aims to encourage proper disposal and recycling practices among fishermen, per the press release.
To support the program, the county has also held public information sessions explaining recycling incentives and collection procedures.
