Main problem:
Ghost fishing gear & marine plastic pollution
Subproblem:
Abandoned fishing nets, wildlife entanglement & marine habitat damage
Consequence:
Marine pollution & ecosystem damage, Wildlife entanglement & seabed damage, Habitat loss & protection gaps
Solution:
Ghost net recovery, marine litter prevention, recycling & environmental education

Healthy Seas – Journey from Waste to Wear

Healthy Seas is an international marine conservation foundation established in the Netherlands in 2013. Its mission is to protect marine ecosystems by removing abandoned fishing nets and other marine litter, preventing future pollution and transforming recovered waste into valuable resources.

Removing Ghost Nets from the Ocean

Lost and abandoned fishing gear poses a serious threat to marine wildlife. These so-called ghost nets continue trapping fish, turtles, crustaceans and other animals long after they have been discarded. Healthy Seas works with volunteer divers, particularly its founding partner Ghost Diving, to recover dangerous fishing gear from shipwrecks, reefs, abandoned fish farms and coastal environments. Its underwater operations take place in multiple countries and frequently involve local fishing communities, environmental organizations and marine conservation experts.

Turning Waste into Resources

Healthy Seas believes that recovered marine litter should not simply become another waste problem. Through partnerships with recycling companies, discarded fishing nets can be transformed into new materials and products. Its founding partner Aquafil processes suitable nylon fishing nets through the ECONYL® regeneration system, while partners such as Bracenet turn recovered fishing nets into accessories. These partnerships demonstrate how ocean conservation can contribute to a circular economy.

Preventing Future Pollution

Removing existing waste is only part of the solution. Healthy Seas works with fishermen, harbor authorities and aquaculture operators to improve fishing gear collection, waste management and responsible disposal practices. By preventing nets and other equipment from entering the sea, the foundation aims to reduce the long-term threat of ghost fishing.

Education and Community Engagement

Education is another central pillar of Healthy Seas. Through school programs, exhibitions, public events and virtual reality experiences, the foundation introduces young people and adults to the challenges of marine pollution. Its educational activities connect practical environmental action with sustainable consumption and responsible resource use.

Creating Lasting Ocean Impact

Since its establishment, Healthy Seas has recovered more than 1,300 tonnes of fishing nets and other marine litter. By combining underwater cleanups, prevention, recycling and education, Healthy Seas demonstrates how international cooperation can produce measurable benefits for marine ecosystems.