The project aims to develop and test novel practices for the identification and retrieval of subaquatic macro-plastics, primarily derived from discarded fishing gear, within the inner shelf of the western Black Sea. It seeks to recover derelict fishing gear for recycling, understanding transport and accumulation dynamics, and assessing microplastic pollution in living species and their habitats. Notably, the project addresses the significant impact of lost fishing equipment, or “ghost nets,” on marine biodiversity, highlighting risks to economically vital species and potential threats to human health through the food chain. Past studies reveal concerning levels of microplastic ingestion by Black Sea fauna, indicating urgent action. This project pioneers technologies and systems for identifying, recovering, and recycling macro-litter, focusing on ghost nets on the Romanian Black Sea shelf. Project objectives include confirming ghost net locations, recovering nets, evaluating fauna entanglement, and conducting microplastic studies. Advanced bathymetry tools facilitate precise mapping of litter, while custom recovery equipment ensures efficient retrieval. Fauna and sediment samples collected alongside ghost nets undergo thorough laboratory analysis to assess microplastic contamination. By addressing critical gaps in litter management and marine pollution research, this project aims to mitigate the impact of plastic waste on the Black Sea ecosystem and safeguard human health.