𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐧: 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐆𝐮𝐧𝐣𝐮𝐫’𝐬 𝐄𝐜𝐨𝐬𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦

A worrying level of plastic pollution has been observed in Gunjur, particularly in the area between Media Salam and the sand dunes, where discarded banned monofilament fishing nets have been found scattered across the landscape.

Banned monofilament fishing nets are now being used by farmers to protect their crops from animals

Monofilament nets, which are prohibited in The Gambia due to their devastating impact on marine ecosystems, continue to be illegally used by some fishermen. The problem is now taking on a new dimension, as these discarded nets are reportedly being transported inland by farmers and used to protect crops from animals.

Environmentalists warn that the long-term effects of these plastic nets on terrestrial wildlife are largely unknown and difficult to quantify. Animals can become entangled in the nets, suffer injuries, or ingest plastic particles, posing serious threats to biodiversity and ecosystem health.

The discovery highlights the growing challenge of plastic pollution in Gunjur and raises concerns about the improper disposal and repurposing of banned fishing gear. It also underscores the need for stronger enforcement of existing regulations, increased public awareness, and sustainable alternatives for crop protection.

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/177b99_e0037a150d8e4997bb1807da543f5584/file

As Gunjur continues to grapple with environmental pressures, conservationists and community members are calling for urgent action to prevent further degradation of the area’s fragile ecosystems and to protect both marine and terrestrial wildlife from the harmful impacts of plastic waste.