University-driven coastal partnerships to address ghost gear pollution: A case study in Penghu Islands of Taiwan

Abstract

Ghost gear has become a significant environmental and economic challenge affecting oceans worldwide. Preventing and eliminating ghost gear is essential for achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), and partnerships between universities and multi-stakeholders are considered feasible solutions. This case study illuminates the implementation of the Partnerships for Ghost Gear Cleanups & Education Project (PGGCEP) conducted by the National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology (NKUST) in the Penghu Islands of Taiwan, which involves engagement with local stakeholders to prevent and remediate ghost gear in Penghu seas, providing insights into coastal partnerships building to promote ocean sustainability. The conceptual schemes of PGGCEP include education projects, marine citizenship practices, and awareness campaigns. The outcomes of PGGCEP were analyzed under the framework of SDGs. The results showed that PGGCEP not only successfully supported SDG 14 life below water through the achievement of SDG17 partnerships for the goals, and it also contributed to other SDGs, including SDG 4 quality education, SDG 5 gender equality, SDG 8 decent work and economic growth, and SDG 10 reduced inequalities. Future directions for PGGCEP were subsequently provided to refine the project. Based on the findings, this study proposed a framework of university-driven coastal partnerships to address ghost gear pollution. This 4-phase framework highlights the pivotal role played by universities as facilitators of collaborative efforts that involve a broad spectrum of stakeholders for enhancing ocean sustainability.