The greening of the deep blue sea

: paradigm shift in the capture fishing industry through a disruptive circular design recycling model incorporating additive manufacturing

Abstract

The ubiquitous crisis of ocean plastic pollution desperately calls for immediate action. The global fishing industry is a crucial component of the food supply but perversely also a significant contributor to the marine pollution of the world’s oceans. The capture fishing net simpose high risks of microplastics from decomposing nets, and threatening marine species, the ecosystem and food supply. Present specialized recycling methods for the nets are not sufficiently scaled to reach all fishermen. The present research aims to validate the viability of a method for sustainably transforming the capture fishing industry. This includes transformative management practices such as circular design and business model innovations. A closed-loop circular design subscription model for recycled capture fishing gear, with the utilization of distributive- and additive manufacturing, was proposed. There has not been an approach similar to this so far. Analysis revealed the necessity of industry transformation which needs to be carefully assessed and precisely planned across multi-stakeholders to ensure successful transition from alinear to a circular business model promoting sustainability.

Date of Award	1 Feb 2022
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Peter V. Rajsingh (Supervisor)