Casting nets during the Plankton & Plastic Surveys of U.S. Ocean Waters

Marine debris is a topic that’s been in the news a lot lately, as researchers continue to learn more about the nature and extent of this problem.  Although it’s not currently possible to precisely quantify the amount and exact location of the worst concentrations, we can all agree that litter – including plastics – does not belong in the ocean.   Most researchers do agree that most marine debris starts out as land-based litter.   Human behavior created the problem and human behavior can solve it.  That’s why plastic makers are partnering with governments, academics and NGOs to support plastics recycling and to launch anti-littering education programs.  And, we’re especially looking forward to participating in the upcoming 5^th International Marine Debris Conference (5IMDC) this spring.

5IMDC presents a tremendous opportunity to deepen our understanding, meet with researchers and other experts, talk about best practices, and find new ways to work together on real solutions.  Some of the things we look forward to sharing include successes we’ve had with public-private partnerships in California.  For example, for the past three years we have worked in California (including with Keep California Beautiful, California State Parks, Caltrans and the City of Woodland) to place nearly 700 recycle bins throughout the state.  Those bins diverted over 45 tons of plastic and over 105 tons of other recyclable materials from the waste stream, and importantly, prevented them from entering the marine environment as litter. 

More recently we expanded our efforts  with a Los Angeles area after school program provider (LA’s BEST) to continue a recycling education program that teaches kids the importance of reusing and recycling.  Over the past two years we’ve reached more than 27,000 children in the Los Angeles area.  And, last year, we worked with the Southern California Youth Soccer League, The Los Angeles Galaxy and the Sports Authority on a recycling collection program that engaged 400 young soccer players.  Armed with large plastic bags and a quick lesson on what they could collect for recycling, these amazing kids collected and recycled more than 3,156 pounds of items, including 1,695 pounds of plastics, during a 7 week challenge.  Many of the organization’s coaches and parents now tell us that the education has taken root and the kids have begun integrating recycling into their daily lives.

These successes show us that, when we work together, we can create change. 

All of us can help make a difference by making sure plastic doesn’t get in the ocean in the first place.  With thoughtful programs, more on-the-go recycling options, tough litter abatement laws, well-run municipal recycling and waste management systems, and behavioral changes, we can help keep plastics (and other materials) out of our waste stream, off our beaches and away from our oceans.  Changing behavior – and making it easier to recycle – are the best ways to help preserve our environment for future generations.