A federal program supporting marine and beach cleanup organizations is making a comeback, albeit with reduced funding compared to previous years. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans revealed that the Ghost Gear Fund relaunch will provide $15 million over a three-year period. While the exact commencement date and any alterations to application requirements remain unspecified.
Angela Riley, the founder of Scotian Shores, expressed optimism about the fund’s return, acknowledging the significance of the financial support for their group. However, she also highlighted that $15 million over three years might be inadequate when considering the broader scope of the issue.
Ghost gear, comprising lost or discarded fishing equipment, contributes significantly to plastic pollution in the oceans, with Atlantic Canada facing particular concerns due to its fishing industry’s history. Originally initiated in 2020, the Ghost Gear Fund allocated $58.3 million to 134 projects for gear retrieval in Canada and globally between 2020 and 2024, but no funding was designated for 2025.
Following the discontinuation of Nova Scotia’s Marine Debris Clean-up Program earlier this year, organizations like Scotian Shores are reliant on federal support to manage coastal litter. Scotian Shores has previously received funding from the Ghost Gear Fund, with grants totaling $75,000 and $150,000 after Hurricane Fiona in 2022.
The Fundy North Fishermen’s Association in New Brunswick also benefited from federal funding for cleanup activities. Darlene Norman-Brown, the assistant director, emphasized the significant impact of this funding, enabling more in-water retrieval trips compared to when they operated without financial support.
In-water cleanups are costly endeavors, with fishermen facing challenges such as minimal compensation for daily expenses and the impact of rising fuel costs on their operations. Retrievals, which can last up to 12-14 hours daily, often result in materials being disposed of in landfills, although some organizations attempt recycling efforts.
Efforts to ensure responsible disposal of retrieved materials are integral to the Ghost Gear Fund’s objectives. However, there are concerns that funding may be quickly depleted by recycling initiatives. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans is currently developing a “Ghost Gear Action Plan,” slated for completion in 2027.
The return of the Ghost Gear Fund offers hope to marine cleanup organizations in the Maritimes, providing vital financial support for their ongoing efforts to combat ocean pollution.