Short description
Net-works is the first step in creating a restorative loop in carpet tile production.
Description
"Net Works is the result of a collaboration between global carpet tile manufacturer Interface, Inc., the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Project Seahorse Foundation for Marine Conservation Inc., Philippines (PSF). It will tackle the growing environmental problem of discarded fishing nets in some of the world’s poorest coastal communities. Disused nets will be collected from communities and used fulfil Interface’s goals to produce their carpet tiles from recycled materials. Communities will get the best possible price for the nets and encouragement to clean up coasts and waters, providing an otherwise unavailable opportunity for them to be included in global supply chains." (source: ZSL)
Qualitative Analysis
Description of the Process
Net-Works program is a partnership between carpet-maker Interface, Zoological Society of London (ZSL), yarn producer Aquafil and Project Seahorse. It is the first step in creating a restorative loop in carpet tile production. Net-Works helps cleaning up ocean litter, mainly fishing nets that are left behind in large quantities. These nets are made of polyamide 6, a material that is highly suitable to be recycled into a high quality yarn for the production of carpet tiles. In this process, Net-Works is also helping the villagers establish new financial opportunities by providing an additional income stream as well as supporting the creation of community banking. Net-works is a model for inclusive business, it's aims to provide value for all stakeholders throughout the supply chain.
Situation before
Danajon Bank in the Philippines is now one of the most degraded coral reefs in the world, due to extremely high fishing pressure, largely through illegal as well as destructive fishing methods. The use of destructive fishing methods and increasing pollution has degraded the habitats of fish and has dramatically dropped the catch rate to 4.77 kg per fishing operation. It is reported that there are approx a total of 17,693 fishers in the municipalities of the Bohol side of Danajon Bank. Fishing communities are among the poorest and most marginalized in the Philippines. It is reported that over 60 percent of the country's coastal inhabitants live below the poverty line of 6.00 per month for a family of 5-6 members.
Result of project
The Net-Works pilot has already helped clean up 50-60km of beach, generated income for local villagers, and contributed to marine conservation in the region. Payment for the nets provides income to the local fishermen and will also be used to develop micro finance and village savings and loan schemes in the community. These financial opportunities can help local communities to invest into new sustainable businesses such as seaweed farms. Based on the pilot, the plan is to now expand to 15 additional communities in the area and ultimately to other regions, potentially in India and West Africa. From the pilot will also come a toolkit to help other groups and organisations establish Net-Works supply hubs.
Spatial quality
The Net Effect carpet tiles are inspired by the ocean, to carry the story to completion.
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Net Works
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Net Effect
