At Halcyon Dive Systems, we've always believed in the power of collaboration and the importance of preserving our marine ecosystems. That's why we're incredibly proud to be a contributing sponsor to Ghost Fishing UK, an award-winning charity dedicated to cleaning up our oceans.
Ghost Fishing UK's Recent Expedition to Shetland Waters
Recently, Ghost Fishing UK embarked on a groundbreaking mission to the Shetland waters. In just six days, their team of twelve volunteer divers recovered a staggering 1,500 kg/3,306 lb of lost fishing gear. This included a trawl net from the wreck of the Fraoch Ban, 41 creel pots, and several keeper pots. Impressively, all of these items were returned to local fishermen.
The trip, which cost £18,000, was made possible through the support of various sponsors, including Northlink Ferries and our very own Halcyon Dive Systems. We were thrilled to provide the team with extra bright pink lift bags, surface marker buoys, reels, and regulators, ensuring they had the best equipment for the task at hand.
The Importance of Collaboration
One of the standout moments from the expedition was the collaboration between Ghost Fishing UK and the local fishing community. The charity was invited by a group called Fishing Forward, highlighting the concerns about abandoned gill nets in Scottish waters. These nets, often discarded by foreign gill netters, pose a significant threat to marine life and the environment.
Ghost Fishing UK's commitment to working alongside the fishing community is a testament to its holistic approach. By fostering these relationships, they're not only removing harmful debris but also sparking essential conversations about sustainable fishing practices.
A Deeper Dive into Ghost Fishing
For those unfamiliar with the term, 'ghost fishing' refers to the phenomenon where lost or abandoned fishing gear continues to trap and kill marine life. It's a global issue, and discarded nets, ropes, and pots wreak havoc on our marine ecosystems.
We encourage everyone to watch these insightful videos about Ghost Fishing UK's efforts:
- Ghost Fishing UKGhost Fishing UK webinar Ghost Fishing UK Interviewed
- Halcyon Dive Systems: Committed to a Cleaner Ocean
- Pots at Gunnister Voe, ready for new homes
At Halcyon Dive Systems, our partnership with Ghost Fishing UK aligns perfectly with our values. We're not just about diving; we're about making a positive impact on our oceans. By providing the necessary equipment to support these clean-up missions, we're playing our part in a larger global effort.
To everyone at Ghost Fishing UK, we salute your dedication and hard work. And to our community, we encourage you to support such initiatives, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
Together, we can make a difference and ensure our oceans remain vibrant and full of life for generations to come.
Photo Credits: Ghost Fishing UK