Clean Marine
Clean Marine - Litter Free Fishing, is an initiative developed by KESAB in partership with the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).
Focussing mainly on jetties and boat ramps, the program aims to encourage better litter disposal behaviour amongst the recreational fishing community in South Australia. Although studies relating to this group are limited, an estimated one-third of the Australian population is involved in recreational fishing.
Jetties are an important focal point for tourists and coastal communities. Fishing litter - in particular offal, unused bait, discarded line and hooks - can be left behind by recreational fishers.
The danger posed by litter and waste to land and marine animals, delicate eco-systems and fish stock breeding, is highlighted in Clean Marine information.
Clean Marine's main program resource is a sign displaying the Litter Free Fishing message. 200 of these signs will be installed on jetties and boat ramps across South Australia.
Signs categorise recreational fishing litter and waste into five distinct groups:
- Bait bags and plastic bags
- Monofilament line, hooks, sinkers etc
- Bait and Offal
- Food packaging and drink containers
- Cigarette butts
If not disposed of correctly, many of these items can cause harm in the marine environment.
Plastics are particularly dangerous in the marine environment - some types have been engineered to last for hundreds of years. In addition to the dangers to marine life from ingestion and entanglement, plastic can break down into 'dust' particles smaller than grains of sand. These toxic particles have been found to contaminate shores and oceans and can be passed up the food chain to fish and ultimately humans. Cigarette filters - the most common item in our litter stream - are made of the plastic, cellulose acetate.
Click on the links below to view or download Clean Marine - Litter Free Fishing resources:
- Information brochure - Easy ways to care for your favourite fishing spot (1944KB)
- Clean Marine ocean litter - Fact Sheet (825KB)
- Jetty and boat fishing litter stickers (118KB)
- Clean Marine logo stickers pdf (195KB)
- Clean Marine sign design options (415KB)
For more information about the Clean Marine program or resources contact KESAB on 8234 7255 or admin@kesab.asn.au