The recently launched GloLitter Project, which will be implemented by the International Maritime Organisation and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, reports say is aimed at assisting developing countries to apply best practices for prevention, reduction and control of marine plastic litter.
With Initial funding from the government of Norway via the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, 10 countries have been confirmed as Lead Partnering Countries and a further 20 countries have been selected as just Partnering Countries for the project.
Nigeria is among the 10 LPC. Others are Brazil, Costa Rica, Cote d’Ivoire, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kenya, Madagascar and Vanuatu.
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The 20 PCs are Argentina, Cabo Verde, Columbia, Ecuador, Gambia, Mozambique, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Solomon Islands, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tonga and Viet Nam.
Besides plastic litter, discarded gear is also said to pose serious risk to fishers as the nets or lines can become entangled in boat propellers or cause engine damage.
The report also revealed that there is an economic impact when fishers lose their gear or when fish species are caught in discarded gear.
“Lost containers might also pose a collision hazard for ships. Reducing and preventing marine plastic litter is vital to safeguarding coastal and global marine resources.”
While welcoming the countries on board, Head, IMO Department for Partnerships and Projects, Jose Matheickal, hinted that marine litter is a scourge on the oceans and on the planet.
He expressed delight at having 30 countries committed to joining the initiative and working with IMO and FAO to address the litter issue.
“Their experience and the development of best practices will serve as a model throughout the world, and I look forward to seeing results as the project moves ahead,” Matheickal said.
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