
Grants
Ecological Transition
Untangling the sea – Mini Destination Zero Waste Sicily
awarded
Project duration: January 2025 – December 2025
A 1-year project conducted by SEF aimed at assessing the feasibility of a circular economy of abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) and setting up a regional network of stakeholders engaged in addressing this environmental threat. The project involves local stakeholders, including diving centers to map ALDFG; fishing companies to improve ghost gear management; artisans and recycling facilities to explore reuse and recycle options; and public authorities to draw long-term governance.
This project is enabled by TUI Care Foundation and implemented by SEF in collaboration with Abyss Clean Up, association specialized in the identification and removal of marine litter and ghost nets and CNR-IGAG providing scientific support for environmental impact assessment.

Project activities
Call to Action and Diving Explorations
This initiative aims to engage divers and environmental organizations in mapping abandoned fishing gear, gathering data to identify critical areas, and supporting future recovery efforts.
Stakeholder Analysis and Network Development
This activity focuses on identifying and engaging key stakeholders from the fisheries and environmental sectors to discuss strategies for managing discarded gear and fostering collaboration.
Capacity Building for Fishing Companies
This activity offers training sessions for fishers and fishing companies on sustainable practices and tools designed to reduce gear loss at sea.
Social Mapping and Design Activism
This initiative promotes a circular economy for the recovery of discarded fishing nets, involving local artisans and recycling infrastructures to create sustainable solutions.
Upcycling Workshops
Hands-on workshops will guide participants in transforming discarded nets into new products. Expert artisans will share traditional techniques while raising awareness about the circular economy and upcycling practices.
Final Event
An opportunity to bring together stakeholders, institutions, and investors to raise awareness about the sustainable management of ALDFG and foster new synergies for future projects.