Open Access

Sofie Van Anh Hoang, Max Ehleben, Thomas Potempa, James Henderson

• The book outlines the grave issue of marine litter and presents a focused approach to addressing it in Vietnam through international collaboration, policy-making, and education. Marine litter is a significant global challenge affecting all marine environments. It stems from various human activities, with the consequences impacting ecosystems, marine life, and coastal communities economically and culturally. Global efforts are necessary to combat this issue, emphasizing prevention, reduction, and cleanup. The German "Prevention, reduction and recycling of fishnets polluting Vietnamese coastal waters" supports projects to mitigate marine litter. One such initiative, the REVFIN project, targets the reduction of marine litter from fishing nets in Vietnamese waters, enhancing higher education, recycling, and creating circular economies. Recognizing that regional differences demand tailored solutions, the project advises on implementing recycling policies and frameworks, promoting sustainable practices suited to the local context. The transition to a circular economy is essential to lessen marine litter by prioritizing the recycling of resources and sustainable waste management, which helps prevent the generation of marine litter. Adapting Western European solutions to Vietnam's unique environmental, cultural, and economic conditions is crucial for effectiveness. Learning from Europe's best practices in waste management and regulation could inspire Vietnamese solutions, fostering cooperation between government, businesses, and civil society. This work serves as a foundation for developing strategies for managing and recycling fishing gear debris in Vietnam, combining European experiences with local objectives to empower Vietnamese stakeholders to make informed decisions for their marine ecosystems and future sustainability.