The main purpose of this study is to analyse economic feasibility of low-carbon-oriented trawl gear. The results of benefit/cost analysis showed that use of the low-carbon fishing gear is economically feasible. Considering the fuel saving and relatively low CO2 emission by reducing the resistance of gear, net present value by such gear improvement was estimated about 2,430~2,853 million won with the benefit-cost ratio 1.65~1.84 and the internal rate of return 29.18~30.48 percent. Development of low-carbon trawl gear would render significant contributions to reducing CO2 emission in fishing operations and lead to reduce fishing costs due to fuel savings.

Fuel consumption in fisheries is a primary concern due to environmental effects and costs to fishermen. Much research has been carried out to reduce the fuel consumption related to fishing operations. The fuel consumption of fishing gear during fishing operation is generally related to hydrodynamic resistance on the gear. This research demonstrates a new approach using numerical methods to reduce fuel consumption. By designing the fishing gear using drawing software, the whole and partial resistance force on the gear can be calculated as a result of simulations. The simulation results will suggest suitable materials or gear structure for reducing the hydrodynamic forces on the gear while maintaining the performance of the gear. This research will helpful to reduce the CO2 emissions from fishing operations and lead to reduce fishing costs due to fuel savings.