A company specializing in the development and operation of large scale energy-from-waste and renewable energy projects is partnering with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and the Port of Gloucester to remove abandoned gear from the environment under the "Nets to Energy Program."
Covanta Holding Corp. is reaching out to coastal communities for fishing gear disposal in order to reduce the amount of dangerous marine debris entering the marine environment.
The project kicks off Monday, when area fishermen can drop off fishing gear, such as nets and old traps, at Gloucester's Jodrey State Fish Pier from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The intent of the program is to provide an appropriate means of disposal without cost to the city; the program also aims to prevent gear from being dumped at sea — and potentially becoming damaging debris.
Covanta hopes to work closely with the Port of Gloucester and the local fishing industry to coordinate the removal of abandoned gear from local coastal waters, as well as retiring gear that is no longer fit for use within a fishery.
Once removed from the environment, the gear will be transported to Covanta's energy-from-waste facility in Haverhill, which provides electricity for 40,000 homes. Approximately one ton of derelict marine debris equals enough electricity to power one home for 25 days, Covanta officials said.
Anyone seeking more information on the project may contact Jim Caulkett at 978-282-3012, or Kathy Middleton at 978-281-9785.
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