Analysis and Recommendations on Regulatory and Policy Tools to Address Shellfish Aquaculture Related Marine Plastic Waste and Abandoned Gear

The objective of this contract is to

review and assess the common sources of shellfish aquaculture related marine plastic waste and abandoned gear in the Canadian marine environment; review, analyze and synthesise relevant domestic and international legislative/regulatory mechanisms and policies for the management, mitigation, and elimination of marine plastic waste and abandoned gear related to shellfish aquaculture activities, with a focus on temperate regions and regions similar to Canada; and present recommendations to address shellfish aquaculture related marine plastic waste and abandoned gear, based on relevant domestic and international best practices, within the multijurisdictional context of shellfish aquaculture management in Canada.

The recommendations developed by the contractor may serve to support the Government of Canada’s G7 commitments to reduce marine plastics debris and discarded fishing gear in its waters, as well as support Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) exploration of shellfish aquaculture standards related to debris management and strengthen conditions of licence. The Contractor will be directly responsible for ensuring the accuracy, timeliness, and completion of all tasks assigned under this contract. The contract must be completed no later than February 28, 2020.