14.2: Supporting aquatic ecosystems through education

  1. Initiative: Antifouling paints: Environmental hazards and alternatives (Abu-Qir Bay Fishermen community outreach workshop) ​​​​​​​

​​​​​​​Biofouling is the accumulation of bacterial growth, algae, and sessile invertebrates on any submerged surface. To combat fouling ships must constantly undergo cleaning up and maintenance processes. The protection of boat hulls against biofouling is a compelling necessity, not only to prevent material corrosion and degradation but also to maintain the proper maneuverability of the boats, thereby ensuring safety at sea. Antifouling paints are widely used to counteract this problem, using toxic substances such as copper-containing paints which have a great negative impact on marine organisms. Raising the awareness of fishermen about this problem and encouraging them to use eco-friendly antifouling paints is of great importance; environmentally and economically.