For years, marine debris (man-made objects discarded, disposed of or abandoned that enter the coastal or marine environment) was primarily considered a harmless eyesore. However, recent research has proven that debris has serious effects on the marine environment, marine wildlife, the economy and human health and safety. In fact, marine debris has become one of the most widespread pollution problems facing the world’s oceans and waterways.
In an effort to combat this problem, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) implemented its Marine Debris Program, a national and international effort focused on identifying, reducing and preventing debris in the marine environment. As part of this program, NOAA has developed this educational website to inform people on the sources, impacts and solutions of the marine debris issue.
On this site you can download informative marine debris brochures, posters, fact sheets, guidebooks, and activity books tailored to specific audiences, including beachgoers, fishermen, boaters, students and educators. Use the navigation bar on the left to explore the site and get started today!
Download a 1-pager about this campaign (337KB).
