Marine debris is a pervasive problem that threatens our oceans and coastal environments. Since the inception of the NOAA Marine Debris Program in 2006, we have strived to combat this issue by finding solutions through research, removal and prevention efforts. We have had many accomplishments during this time, including funding important and innovative research projects, removing a significant amount of coastal debris, and reaching thousands of students, teachers, and communities to bring the issue of marine debris to the forefront.

There is still a long way to go to solve this problem and we need to be strategic about our future priorities, so we have refined our vision and developed a strategic plan to lead us into the future and help us succeed in continuing to combat marine debris in the coming years. The NOAA Marine Debris Program will continue to take action to help protect our important natural resources.

Take a look at our 2016-2020 Strategic Plan to see some of our goals for the future.