Tamil Nadu Fishnet Initiatives (TNFI) – Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board
Tamil Nadu Fishnet Initiative (TNFI)
Problem
Ghost nets and marine litter from discarded fishnets threaten biodiversity and damage coral ecosystems.
• Lack of a formal, systematic approach to collect and recycle end-of-life fishing nets.
• Economic loss and missed recycling opportunities due to unmanaged plastic gear.
• Fisherfolk unaware of the environmental risks or incentives for responsible disposal.
• Limited infrastructure for recycling nylon and HDPE nets.
Solution
• Establishment of Tamil Nadu’s first Discarded Fishnet Collection Centre (DFCC) in August 2024.
• Fishermen incentivized with ₹40–₹46/kg for depositing old nets.
• Collaboration with recyclers and NGOs to promote a circular economy model.
• Pilot program launched in Chennai, scaling to all 14 coastal districts.
• Integration with awareness programs, Water Clubs, and district-level coordination.
Outcomes
• 16+ tonnes of fishnets diverted from ocean ecosystems (as of May 2025).
• One DFCC operational; five more planned.
• Over 150 fisherfolk engaged in the initiative.
• Community shift in behavior around marine waste.
• Laid foundation for an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework.
SKOCH Award Nominee
Category: State Government – Environment and Forests Department
Sub-Category: secState Government – Environment and Forests Department
Project: Tamil Nadu Fishnet Initiatives (TNFI)
Start Date: 8-14-2024
Organisation: Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board
Respondent: Jayanthi Murali
https://tnpcb.gov.in/meendummanjappai/
Level: Club Plus
Video
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For more information, please contact:
Jayanthi Murali at chairman@tnpcb.gov.in
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