The ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT), Kochi, organized a workshop titled “Strategies for Managing FRP Debris from Coastal Environment” on 30 September 2024. This was organized as part of under the Swachhta Action Plan. The workshop aimed at addressing the growing environmental concerns associated with the disposal and abandonment of Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) boats along the coastlines.

The workshop saw the participation of 60 representatives from different agencies, including the Harbour Engineering Division, State Fisheries Department, various ICAR Institutes, fishermen cooperatives, fishers, Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET), industry stakeholders, and NGOs.The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on the challenges posed by abandoned FRP boats and to brainstorm mitigation strategies for managing FRP debris along the Indian coastlines.

The workshop was presided over by Dr. George Ninan, Director of ICAR-CIFT. During the technical session, Dr. Manju Lekshmi N., Senior Scientist at ICAR-CIFT, presented on CIFT’s interventions in FRP Debris Management. Following this, the workshop featured breakout sessions coordinated by Dr. Nikita Gopal, Head of the EIS Division at ICAR-CIFT.

FRP, a durable material widely used in boat construction, has seen an increase in usage, resulting in a simultaneous rise in abandonment rates. When FRP boats are discarded improperly, they pose a significant threat to the marine ecosystem. These abandoned vessels contribute to microplastic pollution, heavy metal leaching, and the release of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), which have detrimental effects on marine life and coastal habitats.

Addressing this environmental hazard, ICAR-CIFT has developed innovative solutions by creating composites from FRP debris. These recycled materials are used to produce valuable products such as flower pots, large vases, litter bins, outdoor furniture, and other landscaping elements. This initiative not only extends the life of abandoned FRP materials but also offers sustainable alternatives for marine plastic litter management.