Satlink releases its 2024 Sustainability Report: Advancing ocean knowledge through technology and innovation
· New report highlights major gains in ocean science, resource management, and global research & sustainability partnerships across all oceans.
· In 2024, Satlink increased its R&D workforce by 124% and recovered an additional 7,000 kg of ghost gear through its circular economy program -which also expanded to 7 new countries and territories-, reflecting the company’s dual commitment to technological innovation and ocean sustainability.
Satlink, a global leader in technology solutions for ocean knowledge and marine resources management, has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, highlighting another year of innovation, global expansion, and strengthened partnerships for ocean conservation.
The new report showcases how Satlink continues to reinforce its position as a leading player at the intersection of ocean science and technology, delivering data-driven solutions that help governments, regulators, fishing fleets, scientists, and NGOs manage marine resources more responsibly and transparently.
"This year’s report reflects both the daily commitment of our team and our long-term vision" said Faustino Velasco, President and CEO of Satlink. “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, and a more informed, connected, and safe maritime community”.
“Science is at the core of everything we do,” said Kathryn Gavira, Head of Science and Sustainability at Satlink. “By working closely with research institutions, NGOs, governments, and coastal communities, we’re not just generating ocean data, we’re transforming it into knowledge that supports marine ecosystems conservation, fisheries management, and evidence-based policymaking”.
In 2024, Satlink took a major step forward in ocean data with the integration of Canadian ocean tech firm Xeos Technologies into the Satlink group, now operating as Xeos by Satlink. This expansion has strengthened the company’s capabilities in marine technology, integrating advanced tracking and monitoring solutions, and increasing its understanding of marine ecosystems.
This year also marked the launch of global pioneering initiative Project SelecTuna in collaboration with the Spanish fleet of OPAGAC. With more than 1,500 selective DSFs deployed across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, the project represents a major step forward in improving fishing selectivity and promoting the sustainable exploitation of target species.
Satlink also made significant strides with Project ReCon, its circular economy program. Now active in 16 countries and across all tropical tuna oceans, ReCon has recovered over 7,000 kg of ghost gear in 2024, and repurposed DSFs for conservation, scientific research, and artisanal fishing, while helping to build local employment in coastal communities and creating a scalable model for ocean e-waste recovery.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO RESPONSIBLE OPERATIONS
Alongside these initiatives, Satlink maintained its commitment to operational sustainability. In 2024, the company achieved a 32% reduction in CO₂ emissions per DSF unit produced, and lowered plastic usage in its latest models by up to 28%. All production facilities operated on 100% renewable energy, with 18% generated in-house by solar power, and reached full automation with a production failure rate under 0.1%.
Internally, Satlink continued growing its workforce, with a 27% overall increase and a remarkable 124% rise in R&D staff, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to lead in innovation and ocean technology. Women now hold 30% of all management roles, and 100% of employees are covered by private healthcare and trained in equality competencies.
These efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, Satlink received accolades from international entities, such as the World Sustainability Awards, national industry leaders including the Spanish Maritime Cluster, and mass media rankings, such as Actualidad Económica ‘Best Ideas of the Year’.
Link to the report: Satlink 2024 Sustainability Report