On June 11, Nha Trang University (NTU) hosted a roundtable discussion aimed at promoting a circular economy for fishing gear waste in Vietnam’s coastal provinces. The event served as a platform to present project survey results and Best Practice Guidelines (BPG), and to foster dialogue among stakeholders on how to transform used fishing gear into valuable resources.
The roundtable was organized in cooperation with Khanh Hoa’s Department of Agriculture and Environment (DAE) and brought together a diverse group of 41 participants, including representatives from the Sub-Department of Fisheries, the Sub-Department of Seas and Islands, the Sub-Department of Minerals and Environmental Protection, the Center for Management and Exploitation of Fisheries Infrastructure, fishing port management boards, boat owners, local fishers, and media outlets. The NTU team contributed four presentations focusing on the project findings, the survey, and practical guidance, particularly aimed at fishermen and fishing port managers.
The session was co-chaired by Mr. Nguyen Trong Chanh, Deputy Director of the Department of Agriculture and Environment, and Professor Dr. Pham Quoc Hung, Vice Rector of Nha Trang University.
Key Takeaways
In his opening remarks, Mr. Nguyen Trong Chanh praised the project for its relevance and practical approach. He proposed integrating its recommendations into policy drafts and regulatory frameworks at the provincial level.
Specialized sub-departments highlighted several systemic challenges, including insufficient waste collection infrastructure at ports, complex waste-handling processes, and the absence of incentive mechanisms for fishers. The Provincial Sub-Department of Fisheries noted ongoing collaboration with UNDP and other partners to pilot fishing gear waste collection initiatives.
Participants emphasized the importance of clear institutional responsibilities, effective monitoring mechanisms, and supportive policies to motivate fishers to participate in waste management efforts. From the grassroots perspective, local fishers voiced the need for more accessible and clearly marked collection points at ports. They also called for simplified administrative procedures and practical support. Notably, some larger fishing vessels have already begun segregating and storing damaged gear for resale to recycling companies.
Professor Dr. Pham Quoc Hung underlined NTU’s commitment to driving real change:
“We do not want to stop at slogans—we aim for root solutions, particularly recycling. Recycling not only reduces waste but also creates economic value by turning damaged fishing gear into reusable products, opening up a ‘market’ for waste fishing nets and gears.”
In his closing statement, Mr. Nguyen Trong Chanh reiterated the DAE’s intention to embed the project findings into policy-making and called for the establishment of a dedicated fishing gear recycling enterprise in the province. He also advocated for the development of more convenient collection points and expanded communication efforts to raise awareness and foster behavioral change among fishers.
A Shared Vision for Sustainable Oceans
The roundtable concluded with a strong sense of collective responsibility and optimism. Government agencies, researchers, businesses, and local fishers shared a unified vision: protecting marine ecosystems while building a green and circular economy through collaborative and innovative solutions.
This roundtable marks a critical milestone in NTU’s ongoing efforts to connect research with policy and practice. The insights gathered will feed into upcoming project activities and working sessions, helping ensure that solutions are not only technically sound but also grounded in the lived realities of local communities.