Marine Debris Work with Alaskan Native Communities

Posted Wed, 11/15/2017 - 11:00

In celebration of National Native American Heritage Month, the NOAA Office of Response and Restoration’s Marine Debris Program and Assessment and Restoration Division are highlighting collaboration with native communities, nations, and peoples.

Native communities and their in-depth knowledge of local history and conditions are essential for addressing marine debris in Alaska. A large proportion of Alaska’s coast is remote, so addressing debris can be difficult. Native peoples often have specific knowledge and experience that are important for marine debris efforts in these areas and the NOAA Marine Debris Program (MDP) is proud and grateful to have worked with Alaskan Native organizations on several marine debris projects.

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Marine Debris Work with West Coast Native Communities

Posted Mon, 11/13/2017 - 11:00

In celebration of National Native American Heritage Month, the NOAA Office of Response and Restoration’s Marine Debris Program and Assessment and Restoration Division are highlighting collaboration with native communities, nations, and peoples.

Many native communities in the Western United States are tied to the ocean, depending on its resources for economic well-being and cultural identity. The NOAA Marine Debris Program (MDP) is proud to have worked with native communities on the West Coast to protect these resources by preventing and removing marine debris.

Mississippi Coastal Cleanup

Posted Thu, 11/09/2017 - 11:00

By: Amanda Sartain, Extension Program Assistant at Mississippi State University

Since 1988, thousands of Mississippi Coastal Cleanup volunteers have contributed hours of hard work and dedication to the removal of marine debris, which includes any solid, man-made material that ends up in the marine environment either intentionally or unintentionally. Millions of pounds of marine debris have been removed from Mississippi beaches, waterways, and barrier islands over the years. Unsurprisingly, commonly-collected trash items have included cigarette butts, food wrappers, plastic bottles, and straws. During last year’s cleanup event, over 14 tons of trash were collected. Cigarette butts, food wrappers, and plastic beverage bottles were once again among the most common items found. 

The 29th annual Mississippi Coastal Cleanup will take place Saturday, November 18th, from 8 to 11am. Come get involved!

Innovative Marine Debris Removal Projects

Posted Tue, 11/07/2017 - 11:00

By: Nir Barnea, Pacific Northwest Regional Coordinator for the NOAA Marine Debris Program

Marine debris is a big global problem that must be addressed on multiple fronts: outreach to stop littering and encourage better use of products, research to investigate and inform, and of course, removal of marine debris to alleviate its harmful impacts. When it comes to removal, the options range in complexity. The marine debris community is resourceful and creative, and over time has developed a number of innovative removal methods. Since what works for one, could work for the many who may have similar challenges and needs, the NOAA Marine Debris Program has assembled several method overview summaries to facilitate better sharing of innovative techniques for marine debris removal.

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Trash or Treat

Posted Tue, 10/31/2017 - 11:00

BOO! It’s Halloween—the scariest day of the year—and nothing is more frightening on All Hallows’ Eve than… marine debris!

Halloween is both scary and fun, but unfortunately often results in an increase in trash that can become marine debris. But, thankfully there are ways to *actually* be a superhero (not just dress like one!) and take steps to prevent this from happening!

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NOAA Marine Debris Program Releases 2017 Accomplishments Report

Posted Tue, 10/24/2017 - 11:00

Once a year, we like to take a moment to reflect on our efforts to investigate and prevent the adverse impacts of marine debris and to think about how far we’ve come. This past year has certainly been a busy one as we’ve moved forward under the guidance of our strategic plan and five program pillars—prevention, removal, research, emergency response, and regional coordination. With the help of many partners, we have been able to accomplish a great deal. The NOAA Marine Debris Program is proud to present our 2017 Accomplishments Report, which highlights some of our major accomplishments over the past year.

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Now Open: The Annual NOAA Marine Debris Program Art Contest!

Posted Mon, 10/16/2017 - 11:00

Are you a student or teacher that’s passionate about marine debris? Then get your art supplies ready, because this year’s NOAA Marine Debris Program Art Contest is officially open! Students in grades K-8 from all U.S states and territories can submit their artwork now through November 30th. Enter today and you could see your artwork featured in our 2019 Marine Debris Calendar! So get crafty, get creative, and help us raise awareness about marine debris! 

Debris-Free Football: Tailgating Without the Trash

Posted Fri, 10/13/2017 - 11:00

The start of cooler weather means fall is here and for many, that also means the start of a very important season— football season! Whether you follow your local high school, college, or professional team, you likely enjoy all the festivities that come with it. This may include wearing your favorite jersey to every game, getting together with friends for a viewing party at home, or partaking in the tradition of tailgating. Tailgating is a favorite pastime of football fans, but can unfortunately result in lots of debris left behind. Thankfully, there are many ways in which you can still enjoy this football season pastime without contributing to marine debris.

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