Satlink report reveals major 2024 gains in ocean sustainability, highlighting innovation, ghost gear recovery, and global partnerships
Marine technology leader Satlink has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, marking a year of significant global impact through ocean research, innovation, and sustainability initiatives across all major oceans.
The report underscores Satlink’s mission to strengthen ocean knowledge while supporting sustainable resource management. It details a surge in research investment, new international partnerships, and measurable environmental outcomes – including the recovery of 7,000 kg of ghost gear and a 124% increase in R&D staff.
“From expanding the reach of our technologies to reinforcing our efforts to advance ocean knowledge, we are helping shape a more sustainable and understood marine environment,” said Faustino Velasco, Satlink President and CEO.
Ocean Tech Expansion and Research Milestones
A cornerstone of Satlink’s 2024 strategy was its acquisition and integration of Canadian ocean technology firm Xeos Technologies, now operating as Xeos by Satlink. This move has bolstered the company’s marine tracking and monitoring capabilities, enabling deeper understanding of ecosystem behaviour.
“Science is at the core of everything we do,” said Kathryn Gavira, Head of Science and Sustainability. “We’re transforming raw ocean data into practical knowledge for conservation, policymaking, and fisheries management.”
Project SelecTuna and ReCon Scale Up
Two flagship initiatives featured prominently in the report:
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Project SelecTuna, a collaboration with Spanish tuna fleet OPAGAC, deployed over 1,500 selective digital smart buoys (DSFs) across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans to promote selective fishing practices and reduce bycatch.
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Project ReCon, Satlink’s circular economy and marine e-waste programme, expanded to 16 countries and helped recover thousands of kilos of derelict fishing gear for reuse in scientific research and artisanal fishing. The initiative also supports coastal jobs and ocean clean-up capacity worldwide.
Internal Sustainability and Global Recognition
Satlink achieved major operational goals, including:
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32% CO₂ emissions reduction per DSF unit
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28% plastic reduction in equipment design
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100% renewable energy usage across production sites
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Automated manufacturing with failure rates under 0.1%
The company also grew its workforce by 27%, with women now occupying 30% of management positions, and all staff receiving private healthcare and equality training.
These achievements earned Satlink accolades including a World Sustainability Award, recognition from the Spanish Maritime Cluster, and a feature in Actualidad Económica’s “Best Ideas of the Year.”
The full 2024 Sustainability Report is available now at Satlink.com.
