Wando County Collects 24 Tons of Abandoned Fish Cages, Blocking Marine Pollution at Its Source

Abandoned Fish Cages Threaten Resident Safety if Left Unattended for Long Periods

Wando County, in cooperation with the Marine Environment Management Team, dismantled and collected 24 tons of abandoned fish cages left along the fishing village coastline over the past two months.

According to Wando County on July 21, the collected abandoned fish cages were discarded after being used at offshore fish farms in the Sinji-myeon area. If left unattended for a long period, these cages can cause marine environmental pollution, obstruct navigation routes, and pose threats to the safety of local residents.

Wando County and the Marine Environment Management Team dismantled and collected 24 tons of abandoned fish cages left along the fishing village coastline. Photo by Wando County

The county explained that this operation is part of efforts to reduce marine waste and to establish a foundation for eco-friendly aquaculture. After completing the collection of abandoned fish cages in the Sinji-myeon area, the county is conducting a survey of abandoned fish cages in all towns and villages within its jurisdiction. If the survey identifies abandoned cages with owners, the county will encourage voluntary disposal through public notices. If there are no owners, the county will directly collect and dispose of them.

In addition, the county is making every effort to preserve a sustainable marine environment through various initiatives, including: aquaculture farm cleanup projects; the Sea Guardians 365 Task Force; designation of vulnerable coastal areas for marine waste management (with 48 marine environment cleaners deployed); operation of a mobile eco-friendly cleanup vessel; and educational programs to raise awareness among fishers.

Kim Hyunran, Director of Marine Policy, said, "Thanks to the employees who silently worked hard in the field despite the hot weather, the collection operation was possible," and added, "We will guide fishers so that marine waste generated during fishing activities is disposed of legally."