It’s almost Thanksgiving and here the NOAA Marine Debris Program (MDP), we’re thinking about what we’re most thankful for this year.
At the MDP, we’re thankful for the wonderful partners that we work with to help spread the message, clean up, and learn more about the issue of marine debris. We’re also thankful for all the people out there that are thinking about marine debris and how they can help. Each person that thinks “you know, maybe I’ll use a reusable bag at the grocery store today”—we’re thankful for you and your efforts to reduce extra waste that could find its way to the ocean!
We’re thankful for our ocean and Great Lakes and we hope you are too! As you’re celebrating this Thanksgiving, remember to give back to the ocean and consider all the things you can do to keep your holiday green. While doing some of that last-minute grocery shopping, take reusable bags with you and consider getting bulk ingredients or items with minimal packaging. For the main event, it’s the type of occasion to get out the nice plates and silverware. By using reusable cups, plates, and utensils, you’re helping to reduce your use of single-use items. For the items that do need to be tossed at the end of the day, don’t forget to recycle what you can. If you’re expecting to get some of those coveted leftovers, come prepared with your own take-home containers instead of using plastic bags or extra plastic wrapping. Simple efforts like this can go a long way and if we all continue to do our part, hopefully next year we can be thankful for a cleaner ocean.
Happy Thanksgiving!
