What is Marine Debris?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) defines marine debris as any persistent solid material that is manufactured or processed and directly or indirectly, intentionally or unintentionally, is disposed of or abandoned into the marine environment or the Great Lakes. Additionally, marine debris also includes land-based debris that is intentionally or unintentionally littered or dumped into rivers and streams or enters the watershed through storm water discharges and improper waste management practices.

What is Plastic Pollution?

One of the most common forms of marine debris is plastic pollution. Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic objects and particles (e.g. plastic bottles, bags and microbeads) in the Earth's environment that adversely affects wildlife, wildlife habitat, and humans.

For more on the of marine debris and plastic pollution, click on the related "News" links to the left.