Gochang-gun Launches 'Marine Territory Clean-Up Campaign' at Gushipo Port

Published 16 Mar.2023 13:23(KST)

On the 16th, Gochang-gun, Jeonbuk, announced that it conducted a 'Public-Private Joint Marine Territory Cleanup Campaign' involving related organizations and fishermen at Gushipo Port to celebrate the '2023 Gochang Year of World Heritage Cities.'

On the 16th, Gochang-gun carried out a 'Public-Private Joint Marine Territory Cleanup Campaign' at Gushipo Port. <br>[Photo by Gochang-gun]

On the 16th, Gochang-gun carried out a 'Public-Private Joint Marine Territory Cleanup Campaign' at Gushipo Port.
[Photo by Gochang-gun]

The county, along with official vessels from Jeollabuk-do, Buan Coast Guard, and the Fisheries and Fishing Villages Corporation, as well as local fishing boats, used ship equipment to collect marine debris such as abandoned fishing nets and gear discarded at sea near Gushipo Port.

Additionally, about 100 participants from Gochang Daedae, Gochang Suhyup, fishing cooperatives, and fishermen's organizations conducted cleanup activities within the port, collecting approximately 20 tons of marine waste.

The problem with marine debris is not just about foul odors and aesthetics. It harms the survival of marine life inhabiting nearby areas, leading to the collapse of coastal ecosystems.

For fishermen engaged in aquaculture and other fishing activities at sea, the reduction of marine resources caused by marine debris poses an immediate threat to their livelihoods.

Recognizing the seriousness of marine debris, Gochang-gun is making every effort to create a clean Gochang Sea. This year, it has allocated a total budget of 1.4 billion KRW for six projects, including the Sea Environment Keeper Support Project for marine sanitation workers and the Purchase of Debris Retrieved During Fishing Operations project, which buys back abandoned fishing gear retrieved by fishing vessels during operations.

County Governor Shim Deok-seop stated, “Preserving the competitiveness of Gochang’s proud clean sea is the cornerstone that improves Gochang’s image, enhances product value, and forms the foundation of both the fishing and tourism industries. We will continue to carry out regular cleanup activities for a clean and pristine Gochang.”