Recycling Fishing Gear with Erin Adams of "Net Your Problem" | Sea Change

October 4, 2020

Reeling in a big problem and doping good old nets.

Reducing ocean plastic pollution -- especially discarded fishing nets -- requires innovation, drive, dedication, and collaboration. On this episode, Jenna sits down with Erin Adams, NE Division Coordinator for Net Your Problem, a new company working worldwide to recycle fishing gear into everyday products like sunglasses, kayaks, and picnic tables.   Erin has worked alongside fishermen for years and is focused on bringing a net recycling service to Maine and other NE states.   Jenna and Erin explore how the company tackles and recycles discarded trawl gear, the outreach to the fishing community, and how recycled gear can replace virgin plastics and promote sustainability.  Join them to learn about Net Your Problem's projects, their vision for the future, and ways you can get involved.  There is a better way and you can always find it on the Sea Change Podcast.  Only on ASPN!

Show Transcription
This transcription was generated by a computer. Please excuse any errors.
Jenna Valente

A passion for conservation and appreciation for the natural world was engrained in Jenna at a young age. Her father was in the Coast Guard. This meant she always had the fortune of living near the ocean, including Hawaii, Washington State, and Maine. Both of her parents encouraged her to spend the majority of her time outside. As a result, she finds that she is most comfortable barefoot and exploring the coast, countryside, or mountains. Her favorite thing about the ocean is the sheer power of it all. Jenna joined the American Littoral Society as the Healthy Oceans Coalition Coordinator from the Chesapeake Research Consortium where she was a member of the communications staff and focused on building the brand of the program and ensure the health of the Chesapeake Bay. Jenna completed her Executive Master of Natural Resources from Virginia Tech in 2015 and also has her Bachelors in Communication and Journalism from the University of Maine.