Circular Solution to Abandoned Fishing Nets
Cemex, the global cement producer, has embarked on a groundbreaking project to utilize abandoned fishing nets to produce alternative fuel for its kilns in Panama. In collaboration with the Aquatic Resources Authority of Panama (ARAP) and Audubon Americas, the company is providing a sustainable solution to the growing threat of abandoned fishing nets, or “ghost nets”, that endanger marine ecosystems in the country’s waters.
- Abandoned fishing nets, also known as “ghost nets”, are a major concern in Panama’s coastal waters.
- They can cause harm to marine life, including fish, turtles, and other species.
- These derelict nets can also reduce fish populations, leading to economic losses for the fishing sector.
The partnership aims to reduce the environmental impact of abandoned fishing nets by collecting and processing them into alternative fuel for Cemex’s cement kilns. This innovative approach will minimize the use of fossil fuels and reduce the company’s carbon footprint.
- Cemex will collect the fishing nets through its waste management business, Regenerative.
- The company will then process the nets into a combustible material that can be used as fuel in its kilns.
- This alternative fuel will be used in place of fossil fuels, reducing the company’s reliance on carbon-intensive energy sources.
“The solution is part of our Future in Action programme to achieve sustainable cement production,” explained Jaime Muguiro, CEO of Cemex. “Cemex Regenera transforms waste into more sustainable solutions by using it as a substitute for more expensive and carbon-intensive fossil fuels in our cement production processes.”
“Cemex Regenera has the potential to make a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions from cement production,” said Julio Montes de Oca, director of coastal resilience at Audubon Americas. “This project demonstrates the transformative power of collaboration and resource-efficient practices.”
The partnership has already seen positive results, with over six tons of derelict nets and plastics removed from Panama’s coastal waters since 2018. This initiative has improved fish habitats and reduced entanglement with fishing gear, benefiting the fishing sector.
| Key Benefits | Impact on the Fishing Sector |
|---|---|
| Reducing the use of fossil fuels and minimizing carbon emissions. | Improving fish habitats and reducing entanglement with fishing gear. |
| Increasing the use of alternative fuel sources. | Enhancing the overall sustainability of the fishing sector. |
“Protecting these habitats, essential as natural carbon sinks and refuges for marine biodiversity, is also a way to combat climate change,” said Julio Montes de Oca, director of coastal resilience at Audubon Americas.
By providing a circular solution to the growing threat of abandoned fishing nets, Cemex is taking a significant step towards achieving sustainable cement production. The partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration and resource-efficient practices in reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental sustainability.
