Addressing ghost gear remains a growing concern in many fishing areas of Indonesia, and this formed the focus of an in-person discussion held on 23 December 2025 at PKSPL–IPB University in Bogor. The meeting brought together representatives from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF), researchers from IPB University, and fisheries partners, with ATSEA represented by Interim Executive Director Dr. Handoko Adi Susanto and Program Specialist Casandra Tania.

The discussion focused on how national policies and regional plans can be translated into practical actions that benefit fishing communities and reduce the loss of fishing gear at sea. Participants also reflected on lessons from past pilot projects and the need for stronger coordination to ensure activities can continue beyond short project periods.

From the government side, MMAF shared updates on ongoing national efforts, including the development of gear-marking guidelines, revisions to waste-management regulations, and the preparation of standard operating procedure (SOP) for handling ALDFG, targeted for completion by mid-2026. Ongoing initiatives in several Fisheries Management Areas (FMAs) were also highlighted, along with the importance of aligning future pilot activities with national priorities.

Research findings presented by IPB University added important field perspectives, particularly from FMA 718. The studies showed that fishing in this area is often carried out by non-local fishers and that low-quality or damaged nets are more likely to be discarded at sea. Challenges related to waste-collection systems, recycling standards, and limited monitoring were also identified as ongoing gaps.

Across these discussions, a strong message emerged on the need to involve fishers and coastal communities more directly in developing solutions. Participants agreed that fishers and coastal communities should be part of the process in shaping guidelines and SOPs so that recommended practices reflect real conditions and are easier to adopt. Outreach to small-scale fishers was also seen as a priority, as they make up the majority of vessels in some areas but are often missed by pilot projects.

Moreover, the role of fisheries extension workers and local community groups was also highlighted as key to raising awareness and supporting behaviour change. Using existing forums and community networks was seen as a practical way to reach fishers more consistently and strengthen local engagement.

Attention then turned to what happens to fishing gear once it is no longer usable. Promoting recycling and reuse was seen as an important part of the solution, but participants noted that feasibility studies and clear standards are needed to ensure circular-economy initiatives are viable and environmentally safe. Examples from other countries were shared to show how old nets can be turned into useful products when proper systems are in place.

Additionally, improving data collection was another important topic. Suggestions included strengthening reporting systems, working more closely with diving groups involved in net removal, and exploring citizen-science approaches, such as community-based reporting of lost gear.

In response to these discussions, ATSEA presented a draft concept for future on-the-ground activities that will involve government agencies, private sector partners, extension workers, and community groups. Proposed actions include awareness activities, training for fishers, hazard mapping to reduce gear loss, and support for recycling and monitoring systems, with attention to gender equality and social inclusion.

The meeting concluded with shared agreement on the importance of building on existing initiatives, strengthening coordination among stakeholders, and designing activities that respond to local needs. The outcomes of this discussion will help shape upcoming ALDFG field activities supported by ATSEA in Indonesia and the wider Arafura and Timor Seas region.

By Yulia Dewi