About the Project

 

Blue Circular Economy (BCE) is a three-year (2018-2021), transnational project co-funded by the EU Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme (NPA). Its aim is to support the development of the fishing net waste industry in regions across Europe’s Northern Edge. This project builds on the previous project called Circular Ocean(2015 – 2018). Blue Circular Economy (BCE) aims to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) offering products and services within fishing gear recycling solutions in the NPA region to attain a greater market reach. BCE will set up a multi-level cluster to connect and catalyze SMEs in the region. The cluster formation will be used as a network enabler where knowledge and experience are developed and shared. BCE will contribute to sustainable development in the NPA region at the economic, environmental and social levels.

Mission

Our mission is to generate sustainable business opportunities focussed on marine plastic waste solutions through informed, innovative and collaborative efforts, for the benefit of enterprises, local economies, and the environment.

Vision

Our vision is to create the ecosystem, knowledge and industry necessary to reduce the presence of marine plastic waste by fostering a vibrant industry for the recycling and reuse of used fishing netting.

Values

The BCE operates according to the following values:

1. Sustainability
2. Leadership
3. Collaboration
4. Openness
5. Entrepreneurship

Environmental Impact Fact Sheet

Oceans continue to accumulate debris in all forms making them possibly the biggest landfills on the planet. Marine littering, defined as the introduction of solid refuse into the marine environment through human activity, poses a major threat to the ocean environment and is a growing concern for authorities. The total economic damage of marine plastic waste is estimated at almost €12 billion per year including environmental, commercial and clean-up costs