Marine Debris: One of the Most Widespread Pollution Problems
Huge amounts of consumer plastics, metals, rubber, paper, textiles, derelict fishing gear, vessels, and other lost or discarded items enter the marine environment every day, making marine debris one of the most widespread pollution problems facing the world's ocean and waterways.
Marine debris is a global problem, and it is an everyday problem. There is no part of the world left untouched by debris and its impacts. Marine debris is a threat to our environment, navigation safety, the economy, and potentially human safety and health.
Most of all, marine debris is preventable. Visit NOAA to learn more about marine debris and find out how you can make a positive impact on our oceans and waterways.
Reprinted from NOAA.