Canada has launched a new fund aimed at tackling the growing problem of ghost gear—abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing equipment—that continues to wash up on British Columbia's shores. Minister Thompson announced the call for proposals on May 21, 2026, emphasizing the need to protect marine ecosystems from this persistent threat.
Ghost Gear: A Persistent Marine Hazard
Ghost gear poses a significant danger to marine life, entangling whales, seals, fish, and seabirds. It also damages sensitive habitats and contributes to plastic pollution. The new fund will support projects that remove ghost gear from oceans and waterways, recycle recovered materials, and prevent future losses.
Funding and Partnerships
The initiative is part of broader federal efforts to combat ocean pollution. The government will collaborate with fishing industries, Indigenous communities, and environmental organizations to identify priority areas and implement effective cleanup strategies. Minister Thompson highlighted the importance of collective action to safeguard Canada's marine resources.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite previous cleanup efforts, debris continues to accumulate on B.C. shores, underscoring the need for sustained investment. The fund aims to scale up operations and develop long-term solutions, including better gear marking and reporting systems.
This announcement coincides with other environmental news, including a study linking cocktails of pills, caffeine, and fire retardant to risks for B.C. chinook salmon, and the Canadian military's decision to shutter the Nanisivik naval facility in the Arctic.
