E.U. plans payments for fishermen who catch plastic

[Playinghardball]

Source: Raw Story
By Stephen C. Webster

In a unique compromise arrangement, the European Union believes it may have found a way to address the concerns of fishermen and environmental activists, even as it works to address the problem of overfishing that's devastated marine life in coastal areas.

They're going to pay fishermen to catch plastic instead, according to a report by The Guardian's Fiona Harvey. Hauled ashore, the plastic would then be sent off for recycling -- an outcome that's sure to please environmentalists and fishermen alike.

It started with a well-meaning police to limit how much fish stock an individual run can haul ashore. But as it turns out, it only led to fishermen figuring out which fish would be the most valuable, then dumping the others -- nearly half of which were usually dead.

It created an enormous amount of waste and accelerated the decimation of dwindling fish populations, spawning a whole new public campaign to get rid of the practice.

More at: http://www.rawstory.com/rs/2011/05/05/e-u-plans-payments-for-fishermen-who-catch-plastic/

[LisaM]

1. Well it sounds good

Here's hoping it works out.

[dixiegrrrrl]

2. so, how much per pound of plastic and do you have to prove you got it from the water?

I foresee a handy little side business of selling used plastic to fishermen.

[RaleighNCDUer]

4. And if it winds up getting recycled, what'sthe problem with that?

That would, of course, not likely happen as it would cut the profitability of the sale to recyclers, having to pay for it themselves rather than simply collect it. But even if it did, the end result would be in more plastic being recycled.

It would also provide income opportunities for fishermen trying to contend with depleted fish stocks.

[handmade34]

3. whatever it takes...

this must end!!

[pampango]

5. Paying people to do something that is good for society. Hard to see the harm. n/t