Our Journey
Catchgreen’s project inception was in January 2022. Since then, we have come a long way. However, combating ghost fishing and plastics pollution in our oceans is no small task. Explore our project activities below to keep up to date with our progress.
Material Development
Catchgreen uses biobased polybutylene succinate (PBS) to replace traditional HDPE in fishing gear. These compostable and biodegradable materials offer a balance between strength and flexibility. They are designed with mono-extrusion and subsequent spinning of thread in mind. In addition, the material is non-toxic and has the potential to biodegrade in a marine environment where it is anticipated that it will break down to water and carbon dioxide with zero microplastics or toxins. Biodegradation in marine environments is being tested by Norweigan research organization SINTEF, to confirm that the material and subsequent fishing nets comply with agreed requirements and environmental standards. A Life Cycle Analysis on biodegradable fishing nets is undertaken by South African-based The Green House. More research is needed to prove the environmental impacts of biodegradable fishing gear to provide conclusive evidence that the substitution material does not result in microplastics in the specific marine environment where it is being used. See our report and funding request for in-situ biodegradability testing.
Piloting
Catchgreen’s biodegradable fishing nets are being piloted in Kenyan and South African waters. These pilots are testing the functionality and efficiency of the biodegradable nets and ropes.
The Kenyan Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) has piloted biodegradable ropes for seaweed farming in Kubuyni, Kenya, increasing the biomass yield by up to 8% and facilitating the transition to commercially viable seaweed farming for small-scale farmers.
KMFRI, in collaboration with the Mikindani BMU, has piloted modified gillnets, demonstrating the same fishing efficiency as in traditional nylon nets and providing evidence to support a national replacement program for environmentally harmful gillnets.
Policy & Advocacy
Catchgreen contributes to global efforts to address ghost fishing and marine plastic pollution by bringing biodegradable fishing gear into real commercial use. We believe that one of the most practical solutions is the large-scale introduction and piloting of biodegradable fishing gear as an alternative to conventional plastic gear. catchgreen works with international organisations, industry bodies, governments, and private-sector partners to support the recognition of biodegradable fishing gear within sustainability standards and accreditation systems, and to improve end-of-life solutions for fishing gear, including pathways through recycling andcomposting.
Catchgreen has built a strong international presence through participation in major global environmental and policy forums, most notably the INC negotiations for the Global Plastic Treaty. We are especially grateful for our cooperation with UNCTAD, whose support and introductions helped bring Catchgreen onto the international stage, connecting our work to global discussions on plastic pollution, the plastics treaty process, and trade in plastic-related subsidies. At the INC negotiations with have presented our work on biodegradable ropes for seaweed farming, including early pilot results indicating improved growth performance in warmer sea temperatures. Through this engagement, Catchgreen is contributing practical, industry-led solutions to global policy discussions and helping shape the future of sustainable fishing and marine industries.
Market
Following extensive piloting and testing, Catchgreen’s eco-labelled biodegradable fishing nets and ropes will be commercially available in 2026. Cacthgreen uses two routes to market. The first is a standard commercial model, where fishers and operators can purchase our biodegradable nets and ropes at market rates. The second is a blended-finance model designed to improve access for small-scale and subsistence fisheries in the Global South. Through partnerships with development finance institutions and plastic-free deployment programmes, Catchgreen supports the rollout of biodegradable fishing gear to small-scale fishers, including projects in East Africa, helping reduce plastic pollution while supporting livelihoods.
Made by Africa, for the World.
