Dog products made from ghost fishing nets 

A startup is protecting marine life by turning abandoned plastic-based nets into sustainable products for man’s best friend

Spotted: The WWF estimates that between 500,000 and 1 million tonnes of fishing gear is either lost or deliberately discarded in the ocean every year, making up around 10 per cent of marine plastic pollution.  

UK startup Tangle is putting this abandoned equipment, known as ‘ghost’ fishing gear, to good use, turning it into premium dog accessories. In doing so it is embodying the principles of the circular economy and helping to reduce the glut of ocean plastic.  

Through partnerships with various ports, Tangle encourages fishermen to donate their old nets instead of dumping them in the ocean. This equipment is then taken to Tangle’s recycling facility where it is broken down and sorted into raw materials. These are then used to create strong and durable dog leads, bowls, and throw toys. 

In addition to reducing marine litter, the products are lightweight, durable, waterproof, and non-stink, and most are produced in the UK. 

Founded in 2022, the company is growing quickly, and was announced as one of the participants in the second Amazon Sustainability Accelerator in May 2023.

Tangle isn’t alone in repurposing this type of marine pollution, with Springwise spotting glasses and officewear also being made from ghost fishing gear.

Written By: Matthew Hempstead