Tania Kanchanarak
Thailand's Andaman marine ecosystems face increasing threats from abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG), which entangle marine life, damage coral and seagrass habitats, and contribute to plastic pollution. This project will pilot the Aerial Recon and Recovery Initiative (ARRI)’s drone and AI-based method to detect and map ghost gear in four Andaman provinces, in key areas of habitat for sea turtles. We will identify high risk areas, report findings to relevant stakeholders, and conduct targeted clean-ups with local partners. The project will document marine megafauna sightings and promote community engagement in conservation and recycling.
This study systematically identifies ALDFG accumulation zones as well as presence of marine turtles along the Thai coastline. Some areas are heavily impacted by fishing yet previously unexamined via standardized methods. Automatic Identification System (AIS) data from fishing vessels shows a high density of vessel activity along the Andaman coast, which serves as a reliable proxy for ALDFG hotspots. In high density fishing areas, there is a potential for more gear losses, these cause immediate danger to marine life, especially marine turtles. Mapping detected locations of ALDFG as well as marine turtles ensures that future conservation efforts are strategically directed toward the most inundated coastal habitats.
Beyond quantifying environmental impact, this study serves as a platform for community engagement. Since local coastal communities are the most affected by marine debris, we aim to galvanize local action through targeted clean-up activities. These sessions will foster the long-term partnerships necessary for sustainable operations throughout the region.