International conference of “REVFIN – Preventing, Reducing, and Recycling Fishing Gear Waste in Vietnam’s Coastal Waters”

From February 24 to 26, 2025, VINATUNA participated in the international conference “REVFIN – Preventing, Reducing, and Recycling Fishing Gear Waste in Vietnam’s Coastal Waters” in Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province, organized by Kien Giang University. The conference is part of the REVFIN project, funded by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety, and Consumer Protection of Germany. The conference featured the participation of project partners, including Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences – Germany, Nha Trang University, Kien Giang University, Ha Long University, the Research Institute for Marine Fisheries, the Vietnam Fisheries Association, Siam Brothers Vietnam JSC, and Super Truong Phat Plastic JSC.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Cang – Vice Rector of Kien Giang University, emphasized that this event provided an opportunity to assess the progress of the REVFIN project, evaluate survey results, and facilitate discussions among stakeholders on challenges, solutions, and collective efforts to protect the marine environment and promote sustainable economic development.

Project partners from Nha Trang University (NTU), Kien Giang University (KGU), Ha Long University (HLU), and the Research Institute for Marine Fisheries (RIMF) presented their survey findings, practical experience in collecting and processing fishing gear waste, and an evaluation of the potential for recycling materials from Abandoned, Lost, and Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG). The conference also focused on developing a practical handbook, gathering feedback from stakeholders, and reviewing the project’s implementation progress.

The REVFIN project provides valuable opportunities for research and the development of effective solutions for preventing, reducing, and recycling fishing gear waste. As a project partner, VINATUNA is willing to contribute by sharing experiences and resources to support community activities for project promotion. With strong collaboration among stakeholders, REVFIN aims to achieve positive results, effectively impacting the marine environment and coastal communities. Moreover, this initiative represents a significant step toward developing sustainable solutions, protecting marine ecosystems, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fisheries sector.