WWF Mediterranean 102d ago

What if policymakers could see marine litter through the eyes of fishers? At the European Ocean Days in Brussels, the #NETTAG+ project explored new ways to bridge science, technology and policy. In this video, Marina Astudillo-Pascual (Universidade de Santiago de Compostela) from NETTAG+ explains how the project is working directly with fishing communities to test solutions that can prevent fishing gear loss and reduce marine litter. “Right now I’m on a fishing boat, part of the crew, testing which solutions NETTAG+ can  bring to fishers to prevent the damage caused by marine litter.” From technological tools like MyGearTag to social initiatives such as the Fisher Rewards programme, the project combines innovation with real-world testing alongside fishers. But technology alone is not enough. NETTAG+ is also experimenting with virtual reality to help policymakers better understand the real impact of marine litter at sea. “We want to bring this information to policymakers in a different way. Something that can trigger an emotional reaction.” Through immersive experience, emotional storytelling and data visualization, the project the project is exploring whether new communication tools can help build stronger support for solutions that protect our seas. Learn more on nettagplus.eu #NETTAGplus #OceanDays #EUProjects #MissionOceanEU