The Marine Debris Research Prevention and Reduction Act - Summer

This workshop report analyzes the Marine Debris Research, Prevention and Reduction Act, legislation aimed at addressing the growing problem of waste accumulation in marine environments. Marine debris—composed largely of plastics and other durable materials—originates from a wide range of sources including stormwater runoff, shipping activities, fishing operations, landfills, and illegal dumping. Once in the ocean, debris can persist for long periods and travel great distances due to ocean currents. The environmental consequences are severe: marine organisms may ingest or become entangled in debris, coral reefs can be damaged by abandoned fishing gear, and habitats may be smothered by plastic waste. Marine debris also poses risks to navigation, tourism, and coastal economies. Despite these impacts, the problem remains difficult to measure and regulate because debris originates from many sources and frequently crosses international boundaries.

The Marine Debris Research, Prevention and Reduction Act seeks to strengthen federal coordination and scientific research related to marine debris. The legislation establishes a Marine Debris Prevention and Removal Program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to support research, mapping, and removal efforts. It also creates grant programs to fund research and expands the Interagency Marine Debris Committee to coordinate activities across federal agencies. The U.S. Coast Guard would play an expanded role in enforcing regulations governing ocean dumping and waste disposal from ships. In addition to enforcement, the Act emphasizes education and outreach programs designed to prevent debris at its source. The report concludes that improved scientific understanding, interagency coordination, and public engagement are essential components of an effective strategy to reduce marine debris and protect ocean ecosystems.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Workshop in Applied Earth Systems Management.