Across the globe, more than 650,000 marine animals are killed every year due to ingestion and entanglement by lost or abandoned fishing gear (this is commonly known as ghost gear). Ghost gear contributes to an estimated 70% of microplastics in our oceans and is the most dangerous type of marine debris.

Ghost gear isn't just dangerous to animals, it also creates problems for people. It can clog up harbours, is dangerous for divers and swimmers, and kills fishermen's catches.

There has been limited action in WA in response to this growing problem. There have been some small fishing gear deposit bins placed at some WA fishing locations around Rockingham and Perth. This is a great start, but much more needs to be done to stop fishing gear entering the ocean.

This petition will be presented to the WA Government, via Stephen Dawson, the Environment Minister, and to WA Fisheries. It seeks the introduction of dedicated fishing gear deposit bins and educational signs at all beaches, docks and popular fishing locations along the WA coast. It also seeks large bins at commercial fishing locations for disposing of longlines and traps. These bins, accompanied by educational signs, will ensure that fishing gear is disposed of safely and appropriately.

Please sign this petition to convince the WA Government to introduce dedicated fishing gear deposit bins and educational signs at all WA fishing locations. 

Thank you for helping protect our marine environment!

The Ocean Motion Campaign