DP World and Marine Life Protection Association launch Marmara Sea cleanup

DP World has partnered with the Marine Life Protection Association to remove abandoned “ghost nets” from the Marmara Sea. These discarded fishing nets pose a long-term threat to marine life, as they can remain in the environment for up to 200 years without decomposing.

The project focuses on the deep waters around Istanbul and the Princes' Islands, with teams locating nets at depths exceeding 50 to 55 meters using maritime maps, technology, and local knowledge. The initiative aims to clear over 1,000 square meters of seabed, collecting approximately 800 kilograms of material.

During one recovery operation, teams discovered and safely returned three stingray egg sacs found among the retrieved materials. The collected nets will be processed into recycled plastic granules to manufacture designer sunglasses. To maintain a connection to the source, the specific coordinates and depth where each net was recovered will be engraved inside the eyeglass frames.