Abstract
Marine litter harms marine life, human wellbeing and the provision of clean seafood. In the Barents Sea, a high portion of this source of pollution derives from fisheries. However, there remains a knowledge gap between fishers' attitudes towards litter and their practices when it comes to marine litter onboard their vessels and in harbors. By applying the conceptual lenses of social institutions, this study aims to explore the institutionalization of new practices among fishers to handle marine waste, as well as possible measures to reduce it. Empirical data derives from 21 qualitative interviews with fishers from Northern Norway. The data indicate that there has been a shift in fishers' attitude, partly because of media focus on this environmental issue and awareness campaigns from fishers’ organizations. However, increased sensitivity to the problem has not completely translated into effective practices to address it. The institutionalization of desirable values and practices is hindered by the lack of infrastructure, institutional support and appropriate practical arrangements in harbors. We conclude that increased awareness has limited impact (and can potentially be invalidated), if not accompanied by a system designed to support environmentally adequate choices. Progress on addressing the problem of marine litter depends on the institutionalization of environmental practices, and these are contingent upon an integrated approach between operations at sea and on land.
Highlights
In recent years, attention to marine litter and pollution has increased globally, in the media, and among local government au thorities, industries and organizations whose activities depend on the sea
This article is based on a study of perceptions of marine litter and waste management practices of fishers operating in the Barents Sea, and approaches possible solutions to the obstacles pre venting better management and mitigation of litter and waste
Our findings indicate that fishers themselves notice changing per ceptions and attitudes toward marine litter, for fishers both report and are aware of numerous negative consequences of marine litter for ma rine life and for their own operations
Summary
Attention to marine litter and pollution has increased globally, in the media, and among local government au thorities, industries and organizations whose activities depend on the sea. The presence of plastic particles is ubiquitous, reaching even the most remote locations [3]. This pollution comes with a number of costs to human wellbeing, in relation to sustainable and safe fisheries and aquaculture, recreation, and heritage values. It is estimated that about 20% of marine debris comes from human activity at sea [5], to which fishers contribute substantially [6] through loss of gear—such as nets, lines, and traps—and waste discharge.
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