Marine litter is a high priority, both nationally and internationally for the Nordic countries. One of many different sources of marine litter is the loss of fishing gear and components from lost gear. All the Nordic countries have varying amounts of commercial and recreational fisheries and the CNO project is focusing on lost fishing gear.

Fishing activities anywhere in the world leads to the loss of fishing gear with the subsequent danger of ghost fishing. The effects of ghost fishing varies with the type of fishing gear. Ghost fishing is a hidden exploitation of marine resources that leads to unwanted mortality of marine life. Fishing gear is often made of plastic with long durability and some gear may keep on fishing for decades.

Recycling is a process to convert waste materials into new materials and is a key component of modern waste reduction. Recycling can prevent the waste of potentially useful materials and reduce consumption of fresh raw materials. Currently, methods for handling and recycling fishing gear are being developed.