Monday 28 November 2022
According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), by 2050, the quantity of plastics in the oceans will outweigh fish.
Plastics are a massive problem in our marine environment, affecting marine fauna and flora, people's livelihoods and health.
As part of efforts to reduce the amount of plastic litter ending up in our oceans from vessels, the IMO is planning global mandatory requirements for marking fishing gear and expanding reporting requirements for lost and discharged fishing gear.
To inform this work, we are seeking your comments and advice on two issues:
- mandatory marking of fishing gear, and
- reporting of lost or discharged fishing gear.
Your feedback will help us shape Australia's position on this issue for consideration at an IMO meeting in April 2023 to decide the new international requirements.
Learn more about the proposed changes and have your say on our consultation hub.