Patrick Safran

As a focal point for fragile and conflict-affected countries, Mr. Safran supported ADB operations in this context. Previously, he helped develop ADB’s strategic and results-oriented approach to delicate situations, focal point for disaster and emergency assistance, ICT coordinator, and project specialist and focal point for coastal and aquatic resources management. Before joining ADB, Mr. Safran was a regional manager for Asia-Pacific and Latin America at the French agricultural research agency CIRAD.

The Ghost Gear that Haunts the World’s Oceans

The blog discusses the problem of abandoned or lost fishing equipment that harms marine life and contributes to plastic pollution. It highlights the severe impact on sea creatures, particularly in areas like the Pacific garbage patch. It emphasizes the need for better waste management, technological innovations, and stricter enforcement of fisheries regulations. The blog calls for global and local actions, including gear tracking, green ports, and adopting circular economy practices to mitigate the issue.

For Clean Oceans, Action Must be Local and Global

The blog post emphasizes the need for local and global actions to address ocean pollution, particularly reducing plastic use, improving waste management, and building capacity for large-scale clean-ups. It highlights the severe impact of plastic pollution on marine life and economies, especially in small island nations. The article advocates for innovative financing and international cooperation to tackle the issue effectively.

Ritu Verma

An anthropologist, international development expert, and civil engineer, Ritu works on gender analytical aspects of development projects in the Pacific. She has led several strategic knowledge papers on gender issues in Kiribati, Tonga, Samoa, the Marshall Islands, and the Pacific Islands, as well as ADB’s first innovation marketplace session on Wellbeing and Degrowth: Moving Beyond GDP.

For Clean Islands and a Clean Ocean in the Pacific, Start with Solid Waste Management

The blog discusses the escalating solid waste challenges Pacific Island nations face due to globalization, changing lifestyles, and climate change. It advocates for reducing waste, improving disposal methods, and enhancing regional cooperation to create a sustainable recycling network and attract funding for ocean waste management.