The Development Policy Foundation is proud to support the launch of Ghost Nets Hunter, a pioneering marine conservation project implemented under the EU-funded SeaClear2.0 initiative. Located in Samandağ, Hatay (Turkey), this project addresses one of the most urgent and underreported threats to marine biodiversity in the Eastern Mediterranean—ghost nets, or abandoned fishing gear that continues to trap and kill marine life long after it has been discarded.
Studies show that up to 309 marine organisms die in every 100 meters of ghost net, making these “phantom killers” a major source of biodiversity loss. Among the affected species are the endangered loggerhead sea turtles, which nest along Samandağ’s coast. The Bay of İskenderun (Bay of Alexandretta)—the project’s focal area—is considered one of the most severely impacted marine zones in the region.
A Local Alliance for Global Impact
Ghost Nets Hunter brings together a broad and committed coalition of stakeholders, including Samandağ Municipality, Tekebaşı Fisheries Cooperative, Mustafa Kemal University, Directorate General of Coastal Safety (Kıyı Emniyeti Genel Müdürlüğü) and Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, Turkey
Together, these partners are working closely with local fishers, environmental experts, and maritime authorities to identify, recover, and upcycle ghost nets. The project began with a series of project management meetings and a participatory decision-making workshop to ensure that all relevant stakeholders contribute to the project’s vision and methodology from the outset.
Mapping the Invisible: Ex-ante Research and First Recovery Steps
Before field operations commenced, the team carried out an ex-ante analysis to assess ecological and social risks and opportunities. This study laid the foundation for realistic, evidence-based interventions in the bay. Following this, the first stage of ghost nets mapping and tracking began in early 2025, using local knowledge combined with digital mapping tools. These activities will enable targeted recovery actions, significantly increasing operational effectiveness and environmental outcomes.
SeaClear2.0 and the Path to Circular Innovation
The project is part of SeaClear2.0, a groundbreaking EU program aiming to develop integrated solutions for marine litter removal, combining robotics, community participation, and circular economy principles. Ghost Nets Hunter complements this vision by integrating upcycling activities into its recovery chain—transforming collected ghost nets into useful materials and raising public awareness around marine pollution.
Ghost Nets Hunter is not just about cleaning the sea—it’s about restoring ecosystems, empowering local communities, and creating replicable models of environmentally and socially responsible development.
For updates and results from the field, follow the Development Policy Foundation on Facebook and explore more SeaClear2.0 pilot initiatives at https://seaclear2.eu.