New standard aims to reduce plastic waste from fisheries and aquaculture.
A new set of standards has been introduced to support the fisheries and aquaculture industries in designing equipment that can be reused, repaired, and recycled, according to a press release from Standard Norge.
The series, designated NS-EN 17988, provides a comprehensive framework for circular design in fishery and aquaculture equipment, covering the full product lifecycle. It includes six parts addressing requirements for design, labelling, circular business models, and digital tracking of components. A related technical specification, SN-CEN/TS 18101, outlines key concepts and definitions.
“This standard series gives the industry a practical tool to produce equipment that lasts longer, is easier to maintain, and avoids ending up as plastic pollution in the ocean,” said Jacob Mehus, CEO of Standard Norge. “It’s about protecting the marine environment, reducing gear loss, and supporting a circular economy.”
Standard Norge stated that the guidance will help manufacturers and designers create gear that is easier to repair, reuse, or recycle.