Marine Debris 

Prevention Projects 

and Activities 

in the 

Republic of Korea and 

United States 

A compilation of project 

summary reports 

Carey Morishige (ed.) 

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

Technical Memorandum NOS-OR&R-36 

February 2010 

U.S. Department of Commerce 

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

National Ocean Service 

Office of Response and Restoration 

Marine Debris Division 
Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for 

their use by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 
MARINE DEBRIS PREVENTION PROJECTS AND ACTIVITIES 

IN THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA AND UNITED STATES: 

A compilation of project summary reports 

Carey Morishige1, 2 (ed.)

1 

 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

 Office of Response & Restoration

 NOAA Marine Debris Division

 Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA

2 

I.M. Systems Group, Inc.

 Rockville, MD 20852, USA 

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

Technical Memorandum NOS-OR&R-36 

February 2010 

This document should be cited as follows: 

Morishige, C. (ed.). 2010. Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea 

and United States: A compilation of project summary reports. NOAA Technical Memorandum 

NOS-OR&R-36. 

For copies of this document, please contact: 

NOAA Marine Debris Division 

N/ORR, SSMC-4 

1305 East-West Highway 

Silver Spring, MD 20910 

www.MarineDebris.noaa.gov 
                         

               

             

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Contents

Preface...................................................................................................................................................... 1 

Nearshore Marine Debris Abatement Projects: Republic of Korea

Buyback Program for Fishing Gear and Marine Litter from Fishery Activities ......... 3‐8 

South Korea Coastal Cleanup Program for Marine Litter .................................................... 9‐15 

A Responsible Management System to Address Land‐based Litter 

 from the Nakdong River basin........................................................................................................ 16‐21 

Managing Dedicated Floating Receptacles for Marine Litter ............................................. 22‐26 

Nearshore Marine Debris Abatement Projects: United States

Reel In and Recycle! Monofilament Recycling Program....................................................... 28‐36 

Netting Solutions: Hawaii’s Nets to Energy program and  

Pier 38 port reception facility .......................................................................................................... 37‐40 

Fishing for Energy: A public‐private partnership approach to  

preventing and reducing derelict fishing gear ......................................................................... 41‐50 

Hawai‘i Marine Debris Action Plan: Statewide collaboration to  

address marine debris ........................................................................................................................ 51‐56 

Campaigns that Teach: Diving deeper into marine debris education ............................ 57‐66 

Appendices

Appendix A: Project Summary Table ............................................................................................ 67‐68 

Appendix B: Meeting Agenda ........................................................................................................... 69‐71 

Appendix C: Participant List............................................................................................................. 72‐74 
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Preface

This document is a compilation of summary reports highlighting nine successful marine

debris prevention projects and activities in the Republic of Korea and United States.  These

summary reports were prepared and shared during the Marine Debris Abatement 

Workshop: Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris held on 

August 12‐13, 2009 in Honolulu, Hawai‘i.

The Marine Debris Abatement Workshop was the culmination of a 2009 joint marine debris 

partnership project between the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Land, Transport, and 

Maritime Affairs and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Marine 

Debris Program in the U.S. 

1
                         

     

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Nearshore Marine Debris Abatement Projects 

REPUBLIC OF KOREA
 

2
                         

                 

   

                 

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Buyback Program for Fishing Gear and Marine Litter from

Fishery Activities

Hyon‐Jeong Noh1, Hae‐Ki Kim2, Seon‐Dong Kim3, Sang‐Goo Han4

1Marine Environmental Emergency Preparedness and Response Regional Activity Centre, Republic of Korea  2Marine Conservation Division, Marine Policy Bureau, Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs, Republic of Korea 3Marine Safety & Pollution Response Research Department, Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute, Republic of Korea  4Marine Environment Team, Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation, Republic of Korea 

Abstract

South Korea’s marine debris buyback program is an incentive program to encourage 

fishermen to bring to port entangled derelict fishing gear and other marine debris 

encountered while fishing. The program pays a small incentive fee for marine debris 

brought to port.  Since its start in 2003 by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries 

(now the Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs) this program has been 

implemented in 51 local areas of 38 cities/towns within South Korea as of 2009.  

Introduction

The deposition of large amounts of marine litter in nearshore areas threatens the habitat of 

marine life and navigation safety, and may cause negative impacts to fisheries due to 

ghostfishing. In the past, fishermen have encountered derelict fishing gear during fishing 

activities and throw it back into the sea after disentangling it from their own fishing gear. 

As a result, a great deal of fishery‐related marine litter has been deposited in coastal areas 

where it damages the spawning grounds and habitats of marine wildlife, threatens the 

safety of vessels, and impacts fishery operations and resources.  

For this reason, the Korean central

government’s Ministry of Land, Transport

and Maritime Affairs (MLTM) established 

the buyback program, under which the local 

government purchases the litter pulled up 

by fishing boats and disposes of it under 

proper procedures. The buyback program 

for marine litter requires fishermen to bring 

back to port the collected litter when they 

are fishing. Litter collected includes items 

such as worthless fishery‐related marine 

litter (e.g., rope, net and vinyl). This program  Derelict rope collected in a sack provided through the is not only an efficient and cost‐effective way  buyback program.

to collect marine litter, but it also increases 

the fishermen’s awareness of the destructiveness of such litter to the marine environment. 

Another benefit of the program is the extra income fishermen receive. The main objectives 

of the buyback programs are to improve the marine environment and aid the recovery of

fish populations. 

3
                         

  

                       

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Methodology

Several entities have helped to implement the buyback program, including MLTM, local 

municipalities, the fisheries cooperative union, Korea Marine Environment Management 

Corporation (KOEM), Korea Fisheries Infrastructure Promotion Association (KFPA), and 

the fishermen themselves.

Table 1 illustrates the role of each organization. MLTM accepts program applications from 

local municipalities, decides on program areas, allocates funds, and creates the project 

guide. Local municipalities also invest in the programs and help with supervision.  The

fisheries cooperative union plays a role in the direct buyback of marine litter from 

fishermen “on‐the‐spot.” KOEM and KFPA play a role in waste disposal, providing collection 

sacks and national funds to the fisheries cooperative union. 

The fisheries cooperative union 

distributes the sacks to fishermen as 

they leave port. Fishermen put the 

collected litter into sacks labeled with 

the vessel name, fishing type, 

fisherman's name, and phone number. 

When they return to port, they give the 

filled sacks to the fisheries cooperative 

union. 

Fishermen bring to port debris‐filled sacks, which they pile up on their

4
                         

   

   

  

  

         

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Table 1. The respective roles of organizations participating in the waste buyback program 

Organization Role

MLTM  Develops and guides a master plan of buyback program

 Supervises the project implementation and budget execution  

Local

government

 Metropolitan city & Province 

‐ Makes a public awareness &  education

‐ Manages program implementation of city & town & village 

‐ Makes a project guide

‐ Manages budget execution  

‐ Public awareness &  education  

 City & Town & Village 

‐ Decides buyback program area and  

‐ Expands allocated budget and make a contract with relevant 

agencies

‐ Observes buyback program implementation

 Public awareness &  education  

Fisheries

Cooperative 

Union 

 Purchases marine litter from fishermen

 Operates caretaker who is in charge of bookkeeping and reporting 

 Distributes sacks to fishermen 

 Requests national funds

 Makes and manages reception facilities  

 Public awareness 

Sacks are provided in three sizes: 40 L, 

100 L, and 200 L. When they are 

returned full, the government pays the 

fishermen 4,000 won ($4 USD), 10,000 

won ($10 USD), 20,000 won($20 USD)

respectively (Figure 1). In the case of 

the larger debris, which can't be packed 

into sacks, the fishermen attach a tag to

the item, and the government pays them 

250 won per kilogram ($0.25 USD/kg).

The government also purchases shell,

crab and eel trap for 150/250 won each 

($0.15‐$0.25 USD each).  It should be

noted that this program only accepts

derelict rope, derelict net, plastic bags, and derelict traps recovered by (not produced by) 

fishermen.

Sack used in the buyback program.

5
                         

   

   

             

       

   

   

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Size  40 L  100 L  200 L  Tag trap

Picture  (eel trap: 150 won) 

(shell and crab trap:

250 won)

Purchasing

Price  4,000 won  10,000won  20,000 won  250 won/kg 150/250 won per each 

Figure 1. Sacks provided to fishermen, and an example of a tag.  

Results

A great deal of marine litter was collected through the buyback program between 2004 and 

2008. Table 2 shows the volume of litter collected by the program.

The buyback program collected a total of 29,472 tons for the period at a cost of $19,417 

USD. In comparison, if this volume of litter were collected directly by the government, the

cost would be much greater. Direct collection would require a fleet of vessels, a waste 

collecting boat, a towing boat, and a crane barge.  Additionally there would be the added 

standard operating costs and fuel. Table 2 shows a comparison of the amounts of debris 

collected and cost of the buyback program compared to direct collection of deposited 

marine litter. 

Table 2. Amount of litter collected through the buyback program 

Year

Buyb

Budget

(MLTM +

local

budget,

won)

ack prog

Amount

of litter

(ton)

ram

Cost per

ton

(won/ton)

Clean up dep

Budget

(private

capital,

won)

osited marine litter

Amount

of litter

(ton)

Cost per

ton

(won/ton)

2004  2,518,491  2,819  893  7,062,988  3,618  1,952 

2005  3,383,713  4,639  729  8,189,750  5,352  1,530 

2006  5,043,546  7,458  676  8,310,492  5,368  1,548 

2007  4,215,804  5,759  732  8,527,030  4,114  2,073 

2008  4,255,679  8,797  484  8,860,376  3,419  2,952 

Total 19,417,233  29,472  3,514 40,950,636  21,871  10,055 

6
                         

  

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Average  3,883,446  5,894  659  8,190,127  4,374  1,872 

Benefits

The buyback program is very cost‐effective way to remove seabed litter, as well as it 

provides income to fishermen. Moreover, it helps improve fishermen recognition of marine 

debris impacts, consequently, it contribute preserving the marine environment.  

Difficulties

Although the buyback program is cost‐effective, the idea is counter to the polluter pays 

principle. Also, fishermen will include litter generated from their daily life along with their

used fishing gear—two items not included in the buyback program. Some of fishermen are

also passive or indifferent to participating in the buyback program because of the time‐

consuming need for debris separation.

Conclusions/Discussion

The buyback program is clearly a very cost‐effective system with added benefits. It 

increases environmental awareness among the fishermen and provides them with an extra 

source of income. It also prevents damage to marine life, and uses existing resources (i.e., 

the fishing fleet). However, it does not follow polluter‐pays principle, therefore it is

recommended to transit the program into voluntary program such as floating receptacles 

for marine litter. 

7
Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States: A compilation of

Appendix A: Buyback Program Process 

8
                           

                

  

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States:

A compilation of project summary reports 

South Korea Coastal Cleanup Program for Marine Litter

Sang‐Goo Han1, Hae‐Ki Kim2, Seon‐Dong Kim3, and Hyon‐Jeong Noh4

1Marine Environment Team, Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation, Republic of Korea  2Marine Conservation Division, Marine Policy Bureau, Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs, Republic of Korea 3Marine Safety & Pollution Response Research Department, Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute, Republic of Korea  4Marine Environmental Emergency Preparedness and Response Regional Activity Centre, Republic of Korea 

Abstract

The coastal cleanup program has been carried out as a government‐led (or local 

government‐led) project in Korea. From April‐July 2009, the Korea Ocean Environment 

Management Corporation (KOEM) implemented this coastal cleanup program.  The litter

collected from the coastline was made up of: Styrofoam (32%), waste fishing net (16%), 

plastic (14%), and other (12%). Among the debris, some types, such as Styrofoam, plastic, 

and derelict fishing net, seem to originate from fishery‐related activities. To address this, 

an action plan for education and public awareness of fishermen was suggested. Also, 

continuous implementation of a coastal cleanup program is very important. Administrative 

organizations should be established to manage the cleanup program as well as 

administrative measures. 

Background/Introduction

Coastal marine litter can be defined as any manufactured solid material disposed of or 

abandoned in the marine and coastal environment. It is one of the major sources of 

pollution affecting oceans and coastlines. If coastal marine litter is not removed, it may 

cause serious problems such as economic impacts to the fishing industry and tourism, 

negative impacts on wildlife, and aesthetic degradation.

In 2009, South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Transport, and Maritime Affairs (MLTM) launched 

a coastal cleanup program with a budget of approximately $9 million USD to clean the 

marine environment, improve public awareness, and create jobs in the public sector.  

Because of the current economic state, job creation helps low‐income workers near the 

coastal areas. Originally, the coastal cleanup program was operated by local governments; 

however, in 2009 the program was coordinated by the central government.

This summary report focuses on the 2009 recovery program for marine litter at the coast 

coordinated by KOEM to improve the coastal environment in Korea and help the economy 

by providing a supplemental source for financial income to local residents.

Methodology

The marine litter cleanup program in Korea can be divided into five categories: 1) cleanup

from port and harbors, 2) removal of seabed litter, 3) buyback program, 4) coastal cleanup 

after typhoon and flood, and 5) coastal cleanup program.  

9
Marine    Debris Prevention                        Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States:

A compilation of project summary reports 

1) Cleanup from port and harbors

At present, floating litter is regularly collected by a cleaner‐ship. In 2007 and 2008, the 

amount of marine litter collected by the cleaner‐ship was 3,116 tons and 3,166 tons 

respectively.  

2) Project of removal of seabed litter

This project was launched in 1999. In 2009, this project was carried out in 19 sea areas, 

such as Koeje and Gosung.
 

3) Buyback program

This project, begun in 2003, is an incentive program to purchase marine litter collected

during fishing by fishermen. This project was implemented at major fishing farm locations

through the fisheries cooperative union. 

4) Coastal cleanup after typhoon and flood

After a typhoon or flood, a coastal cleanup is conducted to remove generated marine litter 

at the coast. For example, a total of 252,000 tons of marine litter was collected after 

typhoons (e.g., Loosa, Maemi, Maegi and Nabi) with a budget of approximately 30 million 

USD since 2002.
 

5) Coastal cleanup program 

In 2007, the coastal cleanup program has removed a total of 27,401 tons of marine litter 

(4,547 tons by the Regional Maritime Affairs and Port Office and 22,854 tons by the local 

government). Coastal cleanup program is made up of two activities: A) coastal cleanup 

campaign and B) One Beach One Company Campaign. 

A) Coastal cleanup campaign ‐‐ A coastal cleanup campaign is held annually on May 

31st in cooperation with local non‐governmental organizations.  Additionally, 

participation in the annual International Coastal Cleanup event is also held on the 

third Saturday of every September. These events help raise public awareness of the

severity of marine debris through personal involvement in actions that help protect 

the environment. These efforts should be held continually throughout the year in 

order to have a significant beneficial effect on the coastal environment.

B) One Beach, One Company campaign ‐‐ The One Beach, One Company campaign

was developed by MLTM in order to raise public awareness of the marine 

environment. The campaign involves fishery‐related corporations, local 

organizations, communities, and volunteer groups from more than 30 companies. 

The objective of the campaign is the removal of marine litter on Korea beaches by 

volunteers. Each cleanup area is assigned according to its proximity to the 

participating company and its likelihood for accumulating litter.  These areas

include, but are not limited to, beaches, harbors, and port. 

10
                           

                 

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States:

A compilation of project summary reports 

Coastal marine litter cleanup program, April 15 ­ July 28, 2009

The coastline and nearshore area is 11,914 km and 3,220 km (3.2% of total territory of the 

Korea), respectively. The population near the coast is 13 million people (approximately 

27% of the total population of Korea) and has 76 local administrative units.

KOEM launched the coastal litter cleanup program in 162 sites in 42 administrative units.  

This program is coordinated through 12 KOEM branches located along the coast in Korea.  

Cleanup sites were recommended by competent administrative units and local residents 

were hired as workers.  Workers were mainly senior citizens (64+ years old). The program 

provides the underprivileged and senior citizen classes with job opportunities as well as 

improves the ocean environment. Additionally, most local governments may dispose of or 

incinerate the collected debris free of charge or through cost‐sharing. KOEM has employed 

the manpower needed, thus saving local governments this cost.  

11
Marine    Debris Prevention                        Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States:

A compilation of project summary reports 

12
                           

  

           

    

  

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States:

A compilation of project summary reports 

Figure 1. Photos of program operation

Results

Results of the coastal cleanup program show that coastal marine litter consists of

Styrofoam (32%), derelict fishing net (16%), plastic (14%) and others.  

Table 1. Project summary (as of July 28, 2009) 

Workers (# of people) Debris collected

(ton) Budget

46,151  2,218 (estimated)  1.6 million USD 

Table 2. Detailed breakdown, by cleanup location, of project operation by KOEM 

Branches

Busan 

Workers Amounts(ton)

2,669 66

Inchon

Yeosu

Ulsan

Daesan

Masan

Donghae

Gunsan

Pohang

Pyeongtack 1,560

Mokpo

Jeju

Senior Club 14,791 

1,426 55

3,418 167 

3,068 101 

1,806 241 

4,741 416 

2,696 92

3,456 132 

1,817 120 

130 

2,795 298 

1,908 140 

260 

TOTAL 46,151 2,218

13
                           

                               

‐  ‐  ‐  ‐  ‐  ‐ 

                     

                   

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States:

A compilation of project summary reports 

50 8 15 15 2 5 ‐ ‐ 1 ‐ 4

60 5 15 15 2 ‐ ‐ ‐ 1 ‐ 2

2  ‐ 3  ‐ 3  2  ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 90

30  40  10  10  3  1  1  1  1  ‐ 3

40 9 20 15 5 5 4 1 ‐ 1 ‐

25  5  25  10  4  ‐ 1  20  ‐ 5  5

35 ‐ 20 20 5 5 5 2 2 ‐ 6
 

Incheon

Yeosu

Ulsan

Daesan

Masan

Donghae

Gunsan

Pohang

Pyeongta

k

Mokpo

Jeju

50 ‐ 20 10 10 ‐ 10 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

 Type and percentage of coastal marine litter from the project 

Location Styrofoa

m (%)

Rope

/

Net

(%)

Plasti

c (%)

Woo

d

(%)

Rubbe

r (%) s

Glas

(%) l (%) r (%) n (%) s (%)

Meta Pape Foreig Firework

r (%)

Othe

Busan  30  30  25  10  5 

Table 3.

30 30  10 15  3  2  ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ 10
 

25  45  5  10  10  ‐ ‐ ‐ 5  ‐ ‐

10  15  5  10  5  1  ‐ ‐ 4  ‐ 50 

12 32% 16% 14% 5% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1% Average % %

14

14
                           

   

     

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States:

A compilation of project summary reports 

Conclusion

This program contributed to prevention of marine debris from entering the sea and is more 

cost‐effective than recovering marine debris from ocean. The coastal cleanup program has 

been, in part, carried out by volunteers and has provided supplementary job opportunities 

for the elderly. It also enhances the aesthetic value of coastline and has educational effect 

through involvement of many individuals and companies.

Because of the absence of standard operational and cleanup guidelines, it was difficult to 

record reliable data on the types and amounts of collected marine litter. As a result, it was 

also difficult to set guidelines for the coastal cleanup program. 

Also, most of the marine litter was generated from fishery‐related activities. There is a

strong need for the introduction of marine litter management policies and systems that 

deal with the proper disposal of litter via reception facilities in ports and harbors.  The lack

of adequate port reception facilities may have resulted in marine litter being disposed of at 

sea. Therefore, the central government (or local government) should provide adequate 

reception facilities with appropriate recycling and treatment measures. In addition, it is 

necessary to educate port reception facility users, related companies, and organizations in 

order to facilitate the use of these port reception facilities. Also, in order to reduce marine 

litter, it is highly recommended to collect reliable and standardized data from each site and

to utilize the data for developing future strategies.

Literature cited

NOWPAP MERRAC. 2009. Marine litter management: The approach of Incheon city, 

Republic of Korea. Available online at

http://merrac.nowpap.org/merrac/controller?pgm_id=merrac.client.cm.ImgBoardC

lient&arg=202&menuid=menu4&historyid=3%7C12.

NOWPAP MERRAC. 2009. Regional report on sea‐based marine litter in the NOWPAP

region. Available online at

http://merrac.nowpap.org/merrac/controller?pgm_id=merrac.client.cm.ImgBoardC

lient&arg=202&menuid=menu4&historyid=3%7C12. 

MLTM, 2009. Marine litter management plan.

15
                         

       

           

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

A Responsible Management System to Address Land­based

Litter from the Nakdong River basin

Hae‐Ki Kim1, Seon‐Dong Kim2, and Hyon‐Jeong Noh3, and Won‐Soo Kang2

1Marine Conservation Division, Marine Policy Bureau, Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs, Republic of Korea 2Marine Safety & Pollution Response Research Department, Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute, Republic of Korea  3Marine Environmental Emergency Preparedness and Response Regional Activity Centre, Republic of Korea 

Abstract

The majority of marine litter in South Korea comes from land‐based sources through large 

rivers during the rainy season. Much of the damage from land‐based litter is caused once

the litter reaches the marine and coastal environments.  Several municipals along the 

Nakdong River as well as ministries of the central government joined to solve this problem.  

They agreed to share the treatment cost of the debris at the mouth of the river.  Studies 

were conducted on the input of debris by each municipal.  Utilizing those results along with 

several other variables, the cost‐sharing percentage was calculated for each municipal. By 

May 2009, this type of responsible management system was applied to the five main rivers 

in South Korea. The Polluter‐Pays‐Principle was successfully applied through this system.  

Additionally, this system resulted in the voluntary control of land‐based litter in the inland 

municipals. 

Introduction

Marine litter may obstruct safe sailing and navigation, destroy the habitat of marine 

organisms, and so on. In South Korea approximately 70% of marine litter originates on 

land.  Because of this it is necessary to create a system of controlling the outflow of land‐

based litter into the sea. Large amounts of land‐based litter flow into the sea with localized 

heavy rains, typhoons, and floods during the rainy season.  

Problems such as the uncertainty of government agency operations and difficulties with 

quick collection and removal of debris sometimes result in litter flowing out to the sea.  The

majority of the land‐based marine litter originates upriver. Though the inland municipals 

should share the marine litter treatment cost with other relevant regions according to the

Polluter‐Pays‐Principle, typically most inland/upriver municipals are not concerned with 

collection and treatment of the litter. For this reason, it was necessary to guide upriver 

local governments in minimizing their waste outflow by applying Polluter‐Pays‐Principle. 

16
                         

   

  

     

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Nakdong River basin

Figure 1. Map of South Korea with Nakdong  Figure 2. A detailed map of the Nakdong River basin.  River basin circled. 

Methodology

The central government (at the time the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries 

(MOMAF), Ministry of Environment (MOE)) and the four local governments along the  

Nakdong River (Busan, Daegu, Gyeongsangbuk‐do, and Gyeongsangnam‐do) signed a 

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in September, 2007. The objective of the MOU was 

the efficient management of marine litter flowing into the sea from the mouth of the 

Nakdong River.  The main goal was “organizing a council for the waste management of the 

Nakdong River basin” and “carrying out studies to prepare the responsible management 

plan in the basin of the Nakdong River”.  

Research on the actual level of litter outflow from the Nakdong River was conducted in 

preparation for the management plan.  The Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime 

Affairs (MLTM, formerly MOMAF) carried out these studies to prepare “Responsible 

Management Plan” according to the MOU. The Korea Ocean Research and Development 

Institute (KORDI) and other research institutes in each city and province joined the project 

to help track the results. 

This project adopted a sharing rate for the treatment cost of marine litter at the mouth of 

Nakdong River.  The cost is shared between the central and local governments, and takes 

into account the polluters, beneficiaries, and each location based on the area of the basin, 

population, and the estimated volume of the waste. 

17
                         

           

  

    

  

    

   

  

    

  

      

   

   

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Procedure for estimating the cost­share rate

Step 1  Estimating sharing rate between central government payment and 

cooperative payment between relevant local  governments 

(Central government 50%: Local government cooperative payment 50%) 

Step 2  Estimating sharing rate between beneficiaries and polluters (within cost‐

sharing of relevant local governments) 

(sharing rate of beneficiary 40.4% : polluter 59.6%)
 

Step 3  Estimating sharing rate between the polluters in part of the polluter payment 

(Estimating after considering quantity of litter, population, area, financial independence, etc.)

Step 4  Estimating sharing rate with each parties

Table 1. Result of preliminary investigation and the final weighting factors 

Busan Daegu Gyeongna

m

Geongbu

k Total Weighting factor

estimated

volume of

outflow(ton)

342  152  387  206  1087 

37.90% 31.46% 13.98% 35.60% 18.95% 100.00%

Population 799,469  2,504,253  1,582,238  1,821,360 6,707,32

0  21.70%

11.92% 37.34% 23.59% 27.15% 100.00%

Area(km2) 240.7  885.7  7,983.00  15,180.40 24,289.8

0  19.70%

0.99% 3.65% 32.87% 62.50% 100.00%

Financial

Independen

ce

71.8  74.5  45.5  42.7  234.5 

20.70% 30.62% 31.77% 19.40% 18.21% 100.00%

Sharing rate

of polluter 21.04% 20.70% 29.10% 29.16% 100% 100.00%

Formula to estimate the cost‐sharing rate for each local government: 

     Local government(0.5) × Polluter(0.596) × Sharing rate between the polluters(A) × 100 

+ Local government(0.5) × Sharing of the beneficiary (0.404) × Benefit rate(B) × 100 

18
                         

  

     

     

  

               

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Busan city and Gyeongsangnam‐do province did not agree upon the cost‐sharing rate 

between polluters (A) and benefit rate (B).  To facilitate mediation between the two local 

authorities, three meetings and workshops were held. Participants of these meetings 

included MLTM and research institutes (KORDI, Korea Maritime Institute (KMI), and each 

local government’s development research institutes).  A final agreement was reached 

regarding the sharing rate for the treatment cost. 

Table 2. Cost‐sharing after considering benefit rate(suggested)

Benefit rate for Central Local government

Busan:Gyeong­ Total

Nam

governme

nt Busan Daegu GyeongNam

Gyeon

g­Buk

95:05  50.00% 25.46% 6.17% 9.68% 8.69% 100.00%

Signing ceremony for the MOU, April 3, 2009.

Results

Executives with the central government as well as each local government signed the MOU 

for the responsible management of land‐based litter in the Nakdong River basin (see 

Appendix A).  The MOU was prepared utilizing research results and input from working 

level meetings. 

By sharing the treatment cost of

the land‐based litter between 

the central and the local

government, and upper and

lower municipals of the

Nakdong River, the Polluter‐

Pays‐Principle was applied to

help solve the marine litter

problem. Furthermore, this 

cost‐sharing management 

system is also expected to result 

in upriver local governments 

controlling their input of land‐

based litter voluntarily, thus 

promoting responsible control

and management of domestic

waste.

Conclusion

Beginning with the Han River  in 2001, a cost‐sharing agreement for land‐based litter 

management was completed in all five major river basins  that flow through more than two 

cities or provinces (Han River (2001), Geum River (March 2009), Nakdong River(April 

2009), Youngsan River/Seomjin River(May 2009)). Additional investigation is underway to 

determine whether the same type of MOU is needed for other rivers that flow through 

many of the smaller cities and country towns within larger provinces.

19
                         

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Literature Cited

MLTM. 2008. A plan of the investigation and management for litter flowing into the sea in 

Nakdong River basin. Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs, Korea

Marine Environment Management Corporation. December 2008.

MLTM. 2008. The first master plan of the marine litter management (2009‐2003).  Ministry

of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs. November 2008.

20
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Appendix A. MOU for the responsible management land‐based litter input to the 

Nakdong River basin, April 3, 2009. 

21
                         

              

  

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Managing Dedicated Floating Receptacles for Marine Litter

Seon‐Dong Kim1, Hae‐Ki Kim2, and Hyon‐Jeong Noh3 and Tae‐Byung Chun1

1Marine Safety & Pollution Response Research Department, Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute, Republic of Korea  2Marine Conservation Division, Marine Policy Bureau, Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs, Republic of Korea 3Marine Environmental Emergency Preparedness and Response Regional Activity Centre, Republic of Korea 

Abstract

Dedicated floating receptacles for marine litter were installed in Haenam‐gun, Cheollanam‐

do (province) in 2001 and was well‐received by fishermen. Fishermen pile up their used 

nets and farming gear onto the dedicated barge‐type receptacles as they are returning from 

fishing. The Ministry of Land, Transport, and Maritime Affairs plans to enlarge this program 

to 11 coastal local governments, each receiving three receptacles yearly. The collection cost 

for marine debris can be reduced and the voluntary recovery of marine debris among 

fishing communities increased.

Introduction

Marine debris has ecological, economic, and aesthetic impacts to marine and coastal 

systems. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, marine debris is regarded 

as any man‐made, solid material that enters our waterways directly or indirectly. In 

western countries, primary measures for marine debris are coastal clean‐up efforts, 

monitoring programs, legislation, and reusing/recycling efforts. 

In South Korea, the situation is 

somewhat different than in other 

countries. It was not until the 1970s that

Korea began to industrialize, and the 

speed of this industrialization was 

tremendous. Moreover, approximately 

64% of the population lives near a river 

or coast, and it has been very difficult to 

prevent the influx of litter to the ocean.

In 2001, Kang et al. reported the spatial 

distribution of sustained seabed litter in 

ports and harbors.   

Table 1 shows that much of Korea’s marine litter comes from human activities in the ocean, 

specifically from fishing boats.  A review of available literature shows that the problem of 

marine debris in Korea is unique in the sense that no other country has ever tried to seek 

specific technological measures to address this issue. We believe that there is a relatively 

high portion of sustained seabed litter in Korea.  

22
                         

   

   

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Table 1. Number of people involved in fisheries (from Korean Statistical Information Service 

homepage)

City/Province

# of

people

involved

in

fisheries

Pusan‐city 8,196

Incheon‐city  7,767

Ulsan‐city 3,083

Kyungki‐do 4,328

Kangwond‐do  10,619

ChungcheonNam‐do  26,182

Chullabukdo  9,501

Chullanamdo  61,631

Kyeonsanbukdo  12,386

Kyeonsannamdo  30,184

Jejudo 18,464 

Total 192,341

As shown in Jung et al. (2005), KFPA (Korea Fishing Port Association) and KOEM (Korea 

Marine Environment Management Corporation) have removed over 10,000 tons of marine 

debris since 2000 and more than half of the recovered marine debris consisted of derelict 

fishing nets. 

To solve the problem of marine debris one must start by getting rid of the debris source.  

However, once it enters the sea, marine debris must be removed.   Efficient methods and 

tools should be used in the removal of the marine debris. After removal, an appropriate 

treatment technique must be applied. 

The dedicated floating receptacle for marine litter was originally installed at Haenam‐gun, 

Cheon‐Nam province in 2001 and received good reviews from fishermen. The dedicated

barge‐type receptacle, placed around the port, was created for the fishermen to pile up 

their used nets and gear on after returning from fishing.  The receptacles made it easier for

fishermen to unload their debris as well as reduced the possibility of dumping. The 

Ministry of Land, Transport, and Maritime Affairs (MLTM, formerly MOMAF) adopted these 

receptacles as a new nationwide program with the cooperation of local governments. While 

the program in underway nationwide, the case in Haenam‐gun (2009) is presented here.

Table 2. Statistics of sea‐bed litter around Korean ports and harbors (Kang et al., 2001a)

Tires Wire

rope

Polypropylen

e rope

Timber/

Lumber Metal Other Total

23
                         

       

  

       

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

4.70% 19.70% 23.40% 7.60% 22.70% 21.70% 100%

Methodology

Various ways of managing the large amount of marine debris have been considered; 

however proper facilities were insufficient and caused damage to the marine ecosystem. 

MLTM (Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs) recovered 21,871 tons of marine 

debris through a cleanup program and 29,472 tons through the marine litter buyback 

program (Noh et. al, 2009). These programs, however, do little to decrease the overall 

amount of derelict fishing net and gear. 

Cheollanam‐do province is located in

southwestern part of Korea Peninsula.  Its

population related to fisheries is more than

60,000, the largest in Korea. The main type of 

fishery in Haenam‐gun district in Chellanam‐do 

is abalone (ear shell) and laver (seaweed) 

farming. A small barge has been used as a

receptacle for used nets and farming gear since

2001.  This has resulted in fishermen collecting 

their own used net and gear voluntarily. The 

dedicated floating receptacles for marine litter 

had a positive effect on people in the area and 

thus MLTM began to support the building of barges in coastal local governments. 

Table 3. The amount of the collected used fishing gear and marine debris according to the fishing 

population size and the type of fishery. 

Fishing

community Population Fishery type 2006

Amoun

2007

t (ton)

2008 2009.7

A  34 abalone (90%)  40 40  40 40 

B  60  abalone (70%)

laver (30%)  ‐ ‐ ‐ 30 

C  200  laver (90%)  100  +

The barge is built of polyethylene to optimize its 

usability and safety. The standard size for a 

barge or floating receptacle is 9m X 6m X 1.47m, 

but can vary according to the characteristics

and requirements of the port (Figure 1). 

Because of its small size, these barges can be 

easily towed and launched with a smaller ship 

and thus unloading it is much easier.  It can be 

24
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

towed alongside a pier for easier unloading.  MLTM provided 25 million won ($25,000 

USD) for receptacle building.  Local governments take care of maintenance and upkeep.  In

2008, local communities with large amounts of marine litter, large farming areas, enough 

launching space and facilities ranked high on the list to receive these receptacles.  Those

villages with clean ports and coasts ranked even higher. 

Figure 1. Process of building a floating receptacle for marine litter. 

Figure 2. A floating receptacle before and after launching into port. 

25
                         

  

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Results

When the plan to build the first two receptacles for marine litter was announced, the 

response was so great that ten local fishing villages applied immediately. The local 

fishermen voluntarily collected their own marine debris and used gear on these dedicated 

floating receptacles and local authorities entrusted them to deal with waste treatment 

company. MLTM plans to enlarge this program to 11 coastal local governments each with 

three receptacles yearly. 

Conclusions/Discussion

With the dedicated floating receptacles for marine litter, Haenam‐gun reduced the 

collection cost for marine debris by 30%. Furthermore, voluntary recovery of marine 

debris now takes place among fishing communities. The resulting benefit is cleaner coastal 

waters. 

Literature Cited

http://www.kosis.kr/

Kang, W.S. et al. 2001, Executable Plan of Recovery & Treatment for Marine Debris in 

Regional Sea Waters in Incheon Area, KRISO/KORDI Project Report (Korean). 

Jung, R.‐T., H.G. Sung, S.D. Kim, W.S. Kang, and C.G. Kang, 2005, “The Outline of the

Integrated Treatment System to Marine Debris for Offshore Korea”, Proc. 15th 

ISOPE Conference. 

26
                         

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Nearshore Marine Debris Abatement Projects 

UNITED STATES
 

27
                         

             

  

           

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Reel In and Recycle! Monofilament Recycling Program

Susan Shingledecker1

1Environmental Programs, BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water

Abstract

The BoatU.S. Foundation launched the Reel In and Recycle Program in 2006 with grant 

funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the NOAA Marine Debris 

program. The program aims to create a nationwide network of fishing line recycling bins to 

help anglers properly dispose of used fishing line. Monofilament fishing line if left in the 

marine environment can entangle and harm birds, marine mammals and other wildlife. 

Since 2006, the BoatU.S. Foundation has received commitments from volunteers across the 

country to install and maintain monofilament bins and new requests come in daily. Nearly 

1,200 PVC monofilament recycling bins have been built and installed with the help of 

volunteers and over 11 million media impressions have been generated by press releases, 

radio interviews and multiple magazines stories.  The three pronged approach of the Reel 

in and Recycle program of general education on marine debris, the development of a 

nationwide network of recycling infrastructure, and the quantification of these efforts 

through data collection, together show that the program is making a difference reducing 

marine debris.  

Introduction

Monofilament line and commercial fishing gear are 

designed to be strong, durable and nearly invisible

in the water. These qualities make the materials 

well suited to catching fish. Unfortunately when left 

in the marine environment, monofilament line and 

other derelict fishing gear continue to catch fish, 

unintentionally entangling marine life. According to 

the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy at least 267 

species have been impacted by marine debris 

including 86 percent of sea turtle species, 44 

percent of seabird species and 43 percent of marine 

mammal species.  

The aim of the Reel In & Recycle program is to make 

monofilament recycling a regular part of the fishing 

lifestyle by providing the infrastructure to make it 

easy to do the right thing, recycle used fishing line. 

The primary conservation outcome of the program 

will be the reduction of monofilament fishing line in 

the marine environment. Fishing line ranked in the top 10 most dangerous debris items 

collected worldwide in the 2007 International Coastal Cleanup. Fishing line entanglements

Monofilament recycling bin installed in California.

28
                         

       

                     

                           

                         

                       

     

     

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

debris collection, and data gathering. 

accounted for 65% of the 235 entanglements found during the 2007 International Coastal 

Cleanup, by far the leading cause of entanglement. 

The BoatU.S. Foundation is working to educate 

boaters about the dangers of marine debris and 

specifically monofilament line left in the marine 

environment. While 80 percent of marine debris 

may come from land‐based sources, it is

important to minimize the risk of

entanglements and reduce marine debris by 

preventing its introduction at the source. The 

Reel and Recycle program, combining general 

education about marine debris and the 

strengthening of a nationwide network of 

monofilament recycling receptacles, builds 

upon a three pronged approach of education,

Monofilament recycling programs are a proven concept. The State of Florida and other 

local governments have implemented similar programs with great success. What is new 

about this program is its scope. The Reel In & Recycle program take the success that has 

been seen at a few areas of the country on a local level and replicates that into a nationwide 

monofilament recycling program. Bins are placed at high traffic fishing areas from coast to 

coast. Emphasis is made that bins be installed in convenient locations right at the land‐

water interface making it easy for anglers to recycle their used fishing line. 

This program is funded in part by grants from the NOAA Marine Debris Program and the 

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation 

The BoatU.S. Foundation is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to

promoting safe and environmentally­sensitive boating. Our goal is to be the leader in boating

safety and environmental education and outreach, with the purpose of reducing accidents and

fatalities, increasing stewardship of our waterways, and keeping boating a safe, accessible,

and enjoyable pastime

Methodology

The methodology for the program is built around a three pronged approach including: 

marine debris education/outreach, the development of a nationwide monofilament 

recycling infrastructure, and the collection of data on the amount of monofilament line 

recycled. This approach combines general education with the specific enabling activity of 

debris collection and the ability to quantitatively assess the impact of the activities and

translate those actions to debris and entanglements avoided. 

29
                         

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Education/Outreach

The program has two primary audiences for its messaging: groups who are interested in 

hosting and maintaining the fishing line recycling bins, and anglers who have line to 

recycle. 

Partner recruitment

To date recruiting local partners to 

host, install and maintain the 

recycling bins has not been a

challenge. In fact for the last 3 years 

the list of interested partners has 

exceeded the number of bins 

available. Groups or individuals that 

are interested in hosting a bin 

register on the Reel In and Recycle 

website. Bins are allocated based on 

geographic location. Care is taken to 

locate bins in coastal areas and to

spread the distribution of bins to 

A volunteer in New Jersey empties the bin and mails the collected line those areas that do not already have

to Berkley Conservation Institute for recycling. an existing recycling program.

Initially, the BoatU.S. Foundation budgeted incentive payments to accompany each bin to 

cover installation materials, but given the large demand for the program we have not 

needed to utilize incentives. 

To market the monofilament recycling program, the BoatU.S. Foundation utilizes our 

partnerships with the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Power Squadron, Army Corps of Engineers 

and scores of local organizations dedicated to making recreational boating safer and more 

environmentally sound. The availability of monofilament recycling opportunities is 

marketed through the BoatU.S. magazine, the BoatU.S. website, BoatU.S. cooperating 

marinas and through our networks of Clean Marinas and other local partnering 

organizations. To be selected for participation in the program, each recycling location must 

commit to maintain the receptacles for two years and report the amount of material 

collected to the BoatU.S. Foundation via our online data reporting website. 

Angler awareness

The second component of outreach is targeted to anglers to raise awareness of the

importance of and the availability of line recycling. These are the individuals who we want 

to use the bins, as opposed to maintain the bins. The BoatU.S. Foundation has a long history 

of working with anglers on safety issues such as life jacket wear. We use various channels 

to educate this audience and influence behavior including fishing television and radio 

shows, fishing clubs, and fishing magazines and publications. We utilize our network of 

fishing pros to have them demonstrate the behavior we want anglers to emulate. We ask 

the pros to wear life jackets and have them discuss fishing line recycling on their television 

shows. We have found this role‐model, lead‐by‐example technique to be very effective at 

30
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

changing behavior amongst the angling audience. 

We also have maintained a consistent look and labeling for our 1,200 recycling bins. By 

having consistent looking bin infrastructure, over time anglers will learn what to look for 

when they are at a new marina or launch ramp. We are in the process of building a web‐

based map of recycling locations and will use this an another tool to connect anglers with 

locations where they can recycle their used line. 

Bin Construction

Through the program individuals can get bins in one of two ways. We can either send them 

a free bin, or they can build their own. We are limited to building 400 bins at a time by 

funding and storage space. For those groups wishing to build their own bins, we have 

created a video podcast (http://www.boatus.com/foundation/Monofilament/build.asp) 

showing step‐by‐step instructions. For bulk bin construction, we use 6 inch diameter PVC 

pipe. This can be purchased through a plumbing supply store. The pipe and fittings for 400 

bins requires a large storage area. To ease shipping and storing logistics, we have rented a 

40 foot shipping container to store the supplies and bins. Bins are constructed in batches of 

350 ‐ 400 bins. With 20 to 30 volunteers, we are able to build and box the entire amount in 

about 4 hours. 

Two steps of the

construction process 

require the use of power 

tools. For liability purposes,

we have staff members use 

all power tools and keep

the volunteers to other

tasks. We rent a 12 inch

compound miter saw from

a local hardware store to 

cut the 20 foot lengths of

pipe into 2 foot lengths. We

also use a drill press to drill 

one hole in the caps to 

allow water to drain from 

BoatU.S. staff volunteer to build 400 bins in July 2009 at BoatU.S. Headquarters in the bins. Staff using power  Alexandria, VA

tools work in pairs and are 

required to wear goggles and hearing protection. All volunteers and staff are instructed to 

wear gloves, and old clothing as the PVC is often dirty and the glue can stain hands and 

clothes. 

For assembly we create two lines with folding tables and we place the supplies in the 

middle. We start the production at the point furthest from the shipping container, allowing 

the competed bins to be located close to the container opening for ease of moving and 

storage. The assembly line starts with the 2 foot section of pipe. Using Gorilla Glue or other 

31
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Consistent labeling of the bins is key to branding the program. 

adhesive (we do not use PVC Cement due to the noxious fumes) we attach the threaded 

adapter, then flip the bin over and attach the elbow fitting, using care to see that any 

writing on the pipe is opposite the elbow opening. We include a plug with each bin, but do 

not screw on the plug as glue residue could cause it to seal permanently. We apply two 

stickers to the front of the bins, one to identify the program and recognize sponsors and 

funders and another to discourage individuals from placing trash in the bins. Once 

constructed, the bins are placed two in a box and the elbow end of each bin is wrapped in 

bubble wrap. We found that the elbows can break in shipping if not padded. Each bin is 

shipped with a metal, UV resistant sigh that identifies the bin, recognizes funders and 

sponsors and includes a place for the local sponsor to add their name or logo to the sign. 

The bin design has been tested and 

the construction and distribution 

from one location provides the

most cost effective method of 

administering the program. The 

local groups who receive the bins

commit to empty the bins, report

the amount of line collected and

send the line to a fishing line

recycler. Our primary line recycling 

partner is Pure Fishing Berkley 

Conservation Institute. They are a

leading manufacturer of fishing 

line. They supply postage paid 

return shipping boxes to groups 

wishing to recycle line. The line is sent to their facility in Iowa where it is sorted and 

recycled into commercially viable products such as line spools and artificial reef materials.

Data Management

A key component to measuring the success of the program is tracking and quantifying the 

amount of line that is collected and recycled. This has been one of the largest challenges 

associated with monofilament recycling efforts and is often cited as a barrier by other 

groups involved in previous fishing line recycling programs.  

The BoatU.S. Foundation has designed an online data reporting tool to make it simple for 

groups to report the line collected. On the website groups enter in their bin location 

information, and the contact details for the volunteers who maintain each bin. Each time a 

bin is emptied the volunteers can report on how full the bin was, the amount of trash in the 

bin, and other comments. Once the group has collected enough line to fill a shipping box, 

they send the line to Berkeley or another recycler and report the weight of the shipped box.  

This program quantifies the amount of line collected two ways, the number of bins of line

collected, as well as the weight of the line recycled. This will provide us with two ways to 

calculate the volume of line kept out of the water. This online data website will also make it 

32
                         

  

                  

                    

                      

                  

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

easy to identify sites that are very active and may need more bins, and sites that have a lag 

in reporting. This also allows us to determine the frequency that bins are being monitored 

and provide follow‐up to the volunteer groups.   

If bin hosts fail to report the data on the amount of line collected, we will not be able to 

measure the full benefits of the program. Our online data collection tool will enable us to 

keep track of the level of activity at each bin site. We are planning to launch a new incentive 

program for data reporting by providing a monthly prize drawing for those sites who 

submit data in a given month. 

Results

The three primary measures of progress for this project are:

 The number of recycling bins distributed around the country,

 The amount of monofilament line that is returned for recycling,

 And, the number of media impressions generated by the program outreach.

These three indicators give a balanced picture of the program success. First, the number of 

bins distributed shows us the geographic breadth and density of the program. Second, the 

amount of line returned will show us the effectiveness of the program and will identify the 

most active fishing locations. Finally, the third indicator of media impressions shows us 

how effective we have been at reaching the fishing and boating public to include them, the 

users, in recycling efforts. In addition to these three primary indicators the BoatU.S. 

Foundation has engaged a professional evaluation team to establish a baseline for 

awareness and participation in monofilament recycling. The first set of focus groups will be 

conducted in August 2009, with follow up evaluation in 2011. This evaluation will enable 

us to capture some of the less quantitative measure of success and provide a more 

complete picture of program strengths and weaknesses. 

The number of recycling bins distributed around the country.

To date the demand for recycling bins has far outpaced the supply. The BoatU.S. 

Foundation distributes bins to coastal and Great Lakes states. We are limited in the 

distribution we can do in inland areas due to the nature of our program funding. We have 

identified a few funding sources to allow for the creation and distribution of bins to inland 

areas and hope to be able to serve these areas in the future. To date, the BoatU.S. 

Foundation has constructed nearly 1,200 bins. These bins have been mailed to groups in 32 

states around the country.  Each year the demand for the bins continues to grow.  

We have seen in a number of states that our initial supply of bins and support has led the 

states to take up a recycling program and put staff time and additional financial support to 

the effort. This is particularly evident in California, New Jersey and Virginia. Another 

development is that many groups are now undertaking bin construction on their own and 

have turned to the BoatU.S. Foundation to supply them with the decals and signage to 

accompany their bins. This is a cost effective way to continue to grow the monofilament 

line recycling infrastructure network.  

33
                         

           

       

                   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

The online database allows volunteers to report the amount of 

line recycled. 

The amount of monofilament line that

is returned for recycling.

The construction of our online data 

reporting database and website has taken 

much longer than anticipated. The 

programming elements were more

complicated than originally thought and

the contractors experienced delays. That 

said, we have nearly completed the final 

phase of testing and refinements. We 

have worked with a sample of bin hosts to

test the program and have received 

excellent feedback from them. With just 

over 50 bin locations currently active in

the database we have received report of 

93 bins of line collected and over 128

pounds of line returned for recycling. This 

is just the beginning. 

With the 400 bins that will be shipped in August 2009, those sites will be ready in the 

database from the onset. They will work with the program from the first day they install 

the bins, so data reporting will be a regular part of their interaction with the Reel In & 

Recycle program. We also will be rolling out the data reporting program to our other 

existing sites to fully incorporate all sites into the data reporting program.  

The number of media impressions generated by the program outreach.

The Reel In & Recycle program has received excellent media coverage, especially through 

BoatU.S. publications. As of 2008, 11 million media impressions can be tied directly to this 

program from magazine articles and press releases alone.  Additionally the program has 

conducted several radio interviews, a television PSA for with the help of a national fishing 

show, two video podcasts hosted on our website and other outreach as well.  In the Fall of

2009 we will be expanding our outreach partnering with Great Lakes Productions and the 

nationally syndicated radio program “Our Ocean World.”  We will also be producing print 

PSAs for distribution to major fishing and angling publications.  Going forward we are

looking to integrate the use of more interactive media including social networking to 

publicize monofilament recycling and facilitate interaction amongst the volunteer groups 

who participate in the program.  

34
                         

           

           

                             

       

  

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Lessons Learned

Having a line recycler is key.

Monofilament fishing line cannot currently be recycled though most municipal recycling 

programs. Therefore the existence of an entity that can collect the line and recycle it is 

essential. In the United States the primary recipient of collected line is Berkley 

Conservation Institute, a division of Pure Fishing, one of the country’s largest fishing line 

manufacturers. Without their participation recycling line on a national scale would be very 

challenging. 

Demand for the bins is high.

Demand for the recycling bins remains high, eliminating the need for the planned

installation incentives. Because six‐inch diameter PVC is not commonly available in 

hardware stores, volunteer groups greatly appreciate receiving the preconstructed bins. 

That said, it is helpful and cost effective to have an extra supply of bin signs and stickers for 

those groups who are able to build their own bins, but would like to have them consistent 

with the other program bins.  We do believe that reporting will be a challenge and that any 

incentives initially planned for installation should be reprogrammed to reporting 

incentives. 

Having a centralized local partner in a state of region can lead to enhanced program

adoption in that area.

Through the program bins have been distributed to individuals, marinas and other groups 

in quantities of 2 ‐4 bins, and also to larger state‐based of environmental organizations in

larger quantities. While we support supplying individuals with bins and will continue to do 

so, the development of a number of key partnership in various states around the country 

has allowed the program to thrive in those areas. Our relationships with state government 

contacts, Clean Marina Program coordinators, and local environmental groups in California, 

New Jersey, Virginia and Oregon has greatly facilitated the adoption of the program in 

those states. Having a central contact point provides assistance identifying the most 

appropriate locations for bins, and additional support when communicating with bin hosts 

regarding bin maintenance and data reporting.

Conclusion/Discussion

Since the BoatU.S. Foundation began the Reel In and Recycle program in the Fall of 2006 

with funding from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the NOAA Marine Debris

program, we have made great strides at educating boaters about the challenges of marine 

debris and recruiting partners in the program. We have received commitments from 

volunteers across the country to install and maintain monofilament bins and new requests 

come in daily. Nearly 1,200 PVC monofilament recycling bins have been built and installed 

with the help of volunteers across the country. Over 11 million media impressions have 

been generated by our press releases, and multiple magazines stories. We have built, tested 

and launched our online data reporting website. Together these activities and partnerships

are building a nationwide network of monofilament fishing line recycling sites that in time

will change behavior and help anglers see recycling used fishing line as commonplace as 

recycling cans and bottles.   

35
                         

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Literature Cited

U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy. 2004. Preliminary Report of the U.S. Commission on 

Ocean Policy Governor’s Draft, Washington, D.C., April 2004.

Ocean Conservancy. 2008. International Coastal Cleanup Report 2007, Washington, D.C.  

36
                         

                   

     

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Netting Solutions: Hawaii’s Nets to Energy program and Pier 38

port reception facility

Carey Morishige1 and Kris McElwee1

1National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Debris Program / I.M. Systems Group, Inc.

Abstract

In 2002, the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands multi‐agency marine debris group devised a 

unique program to turn derelict fishing net debris into usable electricity as a better way to 

dispose of one type of marine debris.  Today, this successful partnership program recycles 

an average of 80 tons of derelict nets and monofilament line per year.  In total, since 2002,

this program has created enough electricity to power 283 homes for a year each.

Introduction

Marine debris of all types accumulates in and around the islands of Hawai‘i due to their 

location in the middle of the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre.  Much of the debris is made up

of derelict fishing nets. Derelict fishing nets and other fishing gear from domestic and 

foreign sources in the greater Pacific are safety and navigation hazards and can damage 

vessels. Carried by currents, the nets wash ashore and snag on the coral reefs of the 

Northwestern and Main Hawaiian Islands, causing extensive damage and entangling

marine mammals, turtles, and other wildlife each year. 

In the North Pacific Ocean, Hawai‘i‐based longline fishermen often encounter derelict 

fishing nets when traveling to and from fishing grounds and when fishing in areas of 

current convergence where debris is accumulated. Over the years, many Hawai‘i‐based 

longline fishermen have voluntarily brought these derelict nets back to port to eliminate

the risk of future at‐sea encounters. Additionally, across the Hawaiian archipelago, large 

conglomerations of these nets, sometimes weighing thousands of pounds, are removed 

from Hawaii’s reefs and shores each year through various large‐ and small‐scale removal 

efforts.  

Historically, the collected derelict 

nets would be disposed of in

landfills where they not only take up 

space, but also break down

(fragment) very slowly.  These

plastic nets (mainly nylon) do not 

biodegrade or mineralize (break 

down into inorganic components),

but simply break down into smaller 

and smaller pieces.  Therefore, a 

better disposal method for these 

nets was needed. 

37
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Methodology

Nets to Energy Process

Since 1996, NOAA has led a marine debris removal effort in the Northwestern Hawaiian 

Islands (NWHI).  Since then, over 603 metric tons of derelict nets have been removed.  

Instead of adding these nets to already congested landfills, in 2002, the Northwestern 

Hawaiian Islands multi‐agency marine debris group devised a unique program to turn this 

marine debris into usable electricity.

The collected derelict 

nets are transported to

the facility of Schnitzer

Steel Hawai‘i

Corporation, a mainland‐

based scrap metal 

recycler.  There the nets

are chopped into small

pieces suitable for 

combustion at the City

and County of Honolulu’s

H‐Power waste‐to‐

energy facility run by 

Covanta Energy.

Schnitzer Steel Hawai‘i

Corporation transports

the chopped net pieces

to the H‐Power facility.

There the nets are burned, producing steam which drives a turbine to create usable 

electricity.  All services (transport included) are donated free of charge. 

This program is possible only through the partnership and support of Hawaii’s multi‐

organizational marine debris group including the businesses listed above, as well as 

Matson Navigation Company and Alliance Trucking.

Today, all NOAA‐funded marine debris removal projects in Hawai‘i incorporate this 

program as a component for success. 

According to the Hawai‘i State Department of Business, Economic Development and 

Tourism, 100 tons of derelict net provides enough electricity to power 43 O‘ahu homes for 

a year! 

38
                         

          

       

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Pier 38 Port Reception Program

This project was funded by the NOAA

Marine Debris Program in 2005.  The

project had two parts: 1) a feasibility 

study for the creation of a marine 

debris port reception program in 

Honolulu and 2) implementation of a 

marine debris port reception program 

based on the results of the feasibility 

study. The goal is to help reduce

environmental impacts to coastal 

natural resources in Hawai‘i, reduce 

navigational hazards, and create new

partnerships between private and 

public entities.

Project partners include the Hawai‘i Longline

Association, Schnitzer Steel Hawai‘i Corporation,

United Fishing Agency, Pacific Ocean Producers 

Fishing and Marine, Covanta Energy, Matson 

Navigation Company, NOAA, Western Pacific 

Regional Fishery Management Council, Department 

of Transportation‐Harbors Division, City and County 

of Honolulu, and University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant

College Program. 

1. Port Reception Feasibility Project

NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service's Pacific Islands Regional Office, along with the 

Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, conducted a survey of the active 

O‘ahu‐based commercial longline vessels to determine the frequency (per trip) and 

approximate weight of encountered derelict fishing nets over the previous year. The 

volume of debris and method of disposal were recorded along with the feasibility and 

longliners’ willingness to remove and transport derelict net back to a port facility in 

Honolulu. A determination was then made of the most economic and environmentally 

friendly approach to debris disposal. The study also assessed the feasibility and cost of 

providing beacons to commercial fishermen to satellite‐tag encountered debris if they are

not able or willing to remove material. 

2. Port Reception Program Implementation

As part of this project, a port reception program, called “Honolulu Harbor Derelict Net

Recycling Program,” was created and launched in January 2006. Recognizing the efforts 

made by these longline fishermen, a private‐public partnership was formed to help 

coordinate a more environmentally friendly approach to this debris disposal. A 31‐cubic‐

yard roll‐off container is located at Pier 38 in Honolulu Harbor and serves as the derelict 

net receptacle. The receptacle is kept locked to prevent disposal of other types of materials. 

39
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

It is maintained on a daily basis by staff with Pacific Ocean Producers Fishing and Marine 

and United Fishing Agency, both located at Pier 38.  Schnitzer Steel Hawai‘i Corporation 

empties the container when it is full and transports the debris to their facility where it 

begins the Nets to Energy process. 

Other Nets to Energy Partner Projects

Since the port reception facility opened in January of 2006, 

numerous community groups across the island of O‘ahu have

begun to bring derelict nets collected at beach cleanups to 

the port receptacle.  Additionally, the receptacle has become 

a known source for those who would like to reuse derelict 

fishing nets (e.g., for soccer or baseball cage nets). 

Beginning in 2008, derelict nets from both the Big Island of 

Hawai‘i and island of Kaua‘i are also incorporated into the 

Nets to Energy Program, a true show of cross‐county

cooperation.  On the Big Island of Hawai‘i derelict fishing

nets are removed from approximately nine miles of the 

southeast coastline near Ka Lae (or South Point), a known accumulation area for marine 

debris.  Those nets are loaded into a container 

provided by Matson Navigation Company, who picks it 

up when full and ships it to O‘ahu for free.

The island of Kaua‘i is host to Hawaii’s first “Net 

Patrol,” a band of volunteers with the specific mission 

to find and remove derelict fishing nets from the 

shores of the island.  This group is coordinated by the 

Surfrider Foundation’s Kaua‘i Chapter.  

Conclusion

Hawaii’s Nets to Energy program was the first of its kind in the United States.  It has been, 

since its beginning, a very successful program that has facilitated and fostered numerous 

partnerships in marine debris across the state of Hawai‘i.  The program runs today through 

the no‐cost support and work of Hawaii’s marine debris partners, mainly within the private 

sector.  This program has been so successful that it was used as the model for the “Fishing 

for Energy” program, which was implemented in sites along the northeastern coast of the 

U.S. beginning in 2008.

Since the start of Hawaii’s Nets to Energy program in 2002, over 597 metric tons of derelict 

net debris has been used to create electricity (an average of about 80 metric tons per year) 

– enough to power 283 homes for a year each! 

40
                         

             

           

   

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Fishing for Energy: A public­private partnership approach to

preventing and reducing derelict fishing gear

Tom Barry1

1Marine Programs, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation

Abstract

Derelict fishing gear is one of the major types of debris impacting the marine environment.  

It can continue to indiscriminately catch marine species long after it becomes derelict and 

as such has been identified as a particular conservation concern for a number of different 

marine species.  A complementary problem to the prevalence of derelict fishing gear is the 

lack of convenient and accessible disposal options for those who encounter it (primarily 

fishermen).  Fishing for Energy is a public‐private partnership consisting of partners from 

agency, non‐profit, local, state, and corporate sectors with the goal of reducing the impacts 

of derelict gear on the marine environment, and does so in a way that removes existing 

barriers to proper gear disposal on a port‐by‐port basis.  With the cooperation of 13 ports

in five states, to date Fishing for Energy has collected over 180 tons of fishing gear.  This

realizes an environmental benefit through the diversion of gear from (potentially) the 

marine environment as well as from landfills, while at the same time raising awareness of 

marine debris issues in local port communities. 

Introduction

Marine debris threatens important living marine resources and their habitat, as well as 

hinders navigational safety.  Derelict fishing gear is one of the major types of debris 

impacting the marine environment.  It can continue to indiscriminately catch marine 

species long after it becomes derelict.  Marine mammals and sea turtles can become 

entangled and drown, become injured or prevented from catching prey.  Marine habitats 

such as coral reefs or seagrass beds, which are smothered when derelict nets sink from the

weight of their catch, are further damaged when nets on the bottom are shifted by storms.  

It also presents hazards to industry through navigational hazards, or by becoming snagged 

on active fishing gear, resulting in high costs in both time and money.   

The Marine Debris Research, Prevention, and Reduction Act explicitly mandates the 

prevention and removal of derelict gear (through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration’s (NOAA) Marine Debris Program) using “effective nonregulatory measures 

and incentives to cooperatively reduce the volume of lost and discarded fishing gear and to 

aid in its recovery” (Marine Debris Research, Prevention, and Reduction Act, P.L. 109‐449, 

section 3; 120 STAT. 3334; 33 USC 1952B).  Because a comprehensive national program designed 

to assess or remediate marine debris is not currently available (National Research Council, 

2008), the programs most likely to be successful in addressing marine debris are 

individual, locally‐based projects driven by a wide group of affected stakeholders.  In this

case, commercial fishermen and local ports are the most logical and appropriate groups to 

be involved.  Fishermen have indicated that a significant barrier to proper disposal of 

41
                         

   

   

   

   

   

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

retired gear or willingness to bring in derelict gear found at sea is a lack of disposal 

mechanisms and disposal costs.  The primary disposal method for fishing gear currently 

available is land‐filling.  While cost alone can be a disincentive, some landfills no longer 

accept fishing gear at all due to the fact that long rope and nets entangle earth movers and 

other machinery.  This leaves very limited options for proper disposal.  As a public‐private 

partnership consisting of partners from agency, non‐profit, local, state and corporate 

sectors, Fishing for Energy addresses the disposal problem by removing existing barriers to 

proper gear disposal.  The program provides not only a disposal mechanism for fishing 

gear, but also provides an incentive for fishermen and local groups to participate in derelict

gear removal as well. 

Fishing for Energy is based on the Nets to Energy program in Hawai‘i, a program which 

recovers pelagic nets that wash ashore from distant water fishing fleets.  Fishing for Energy

launched on the east coast United States in 2008 through a partnership of Covanta Energy

Corporation, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), the National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. with the 

immediate goal of providing a no‐cost solution to fishermen to dispose of old, derelict or 

unusable fishing gear and to reduce the amount of derelict fishing gear in and around 

coastal waterways.  Based upon successes from the first year of the program, and a five‐

year commitment by Covanta Energy to support and expand the coverage of the program, 

Fishing for Energy is now an established and proven model for gear disposal.  Moving 

forward, the program now seeks to provide local communities with a means to become 

more actively involved in addressing marine debris issues through a small grants program 

(available in the second half of 2009) for projects that raise awareness of marine debris 

issues and catalyze removal of existing derelict gear.

Methodology

Derelict fishing gear is a widespread concern, and is as geographically prevalent as 

commercial fishing.  Fishing for Energy’s business model is to bring the program’s services 

to individual ports that have an interest in partnering and a fishing gear disposal need.

Prior to rolling out the program in 2008, an assessment of ports and commercial fish 

landings was conducted and a GIS map of those ports was overlaid with a layer depicting 

Covanta Energy facilities.  To identify initial ports to target for the program, those ports 

within a reasonable driving distance (160 miles) to a facility comprised the initial list of 

potential ports (See Figure 1).  The NOAA Marine Debris Program and NOAA National 

Marine Fisheries Service’s Gear Team were then given the list to rank into three tiers for 

prioritization based on need from an agency priority point of view.  The list was then 

provided to Covanta for their input for ports of strategic importance to them.  With a few

exceptions, the port list resulting from this process has guided where the program goes.  

Gear samples were sent to Covanta Energy facilities early on for testing to determine 

emissions would be within approved, regulated boundaries for all types of gear material.  

42
                         

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

There are at least five factors 

considered when deciding

which ports are of interest to 

the Fishing for Energy

partners.  This port priority is 

determined by weighing the 

following factors: 1)

proximity to partner facilities 

(in consideration of monetary 

and environmental

transportation costs), 2) the 

level of fishing effort at the

port (e.g., larger ports

typically mean higher gear 

turnover and increased need 

for gear disposal), 3) the

estimated amount (volume

and weight) of gear available 

for the duration of the bin 

deployment, 4) any strategic 

importance to partner

operations, and 5) historical 

significance to the coastal 

community in general. 

Points of contact 

(harbormasters, port

authorities, fishermen

associations) are determined 

through cold‐calling leads 

Figure 1 - Initial Map of Ports and Covanta Facilities from internet searches, or 

going through existing

contacts from NOAA or NFWF.  Outreach to existing NFWF marine debris grantees, fishery 

management councils, NOAA agency contacts (regionally and nationally), media 

stories/articles, and word‐of‐mouth between ports have also brought other ports into 

contact with the program. 

The logistical details related to gear collection, transport, processing and disposal for each 

participating port are determined on a port‐by‐port basis.  The Port Nomination Form (See 

Appendix A), filled out at the beginning of the process by each port, was created to collect 

important information about the site which is then used to determine the number of bins 

that might be required, the duration of the deployment, the location of the bin, whether 

there will be a media event or just a gear collection, among other details (such as volume 

and frequency of gear disposal needs).  At this initial point in the process for each port, we 

work with our NOAA partner to ensure that there are no regulatory issues that need to be 

43
                         

   

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

considered with regard to the handling of fishing gear in state or federal regulations.   We

also work with our Covanta and Schnitzer Steel partners to ensure that the designated

facilities nearest to the port location can handle the incoming gear type and estimated 

volume. 

Bins are provided in‐kind by Covanta through existing contract partners they hold in the 

region and transportation costs are shared by both Covanta and Schnitzer Steel.  The

program accepts and disposes a wide variety of commercial fishing gear.  This includes, but 

is not limited to: line (nylon, polypropylene, monofilament), traps/pots (wood, vinyl coated 

wire), fishing gear rigging (trawl dragger “cookies”, cans, rollers, chain), and nets (nylon, 

polypropylene, monofilament).  Due to costs associated with transportation, the target 

collection rate is for each 30‐cubic yard bin to be collected up to an average of 4 times per 

year.  Depending on the need of a particular port or fishery, additional bins can be 

delivered on an ad hoc basis to capture excess gear that comes in.  Of primary concern is 

the security of the bin while deployed at the port.  Unsecured bins are at risk of being filled 

with trash and other non‐fishing gear debris.  To preserve the integrity of the program, 

ensuring bin security is of utmost concern when working out the logistics of each port 

deployment.  We have ensured bin security in three ways: by placing the bin in a secure 

location at the port, by providing a lockable bin for which a port staff member will hold the 

key and grant access at predetermined times, and by renting chain link fencing to surround 

the bin as a deterrent to illicit dumping.  When the bins are filled, our port partner will call 

to have the bin swapped out.  The gear is collected and transported to a nearby Schnitzer 

Steel facility where the metal (e.g., crab pots, gear rigging, chain, cable) is pulled for 

recycling, and rope or nets are sheared for easier handling for disposal.  From the Schnitzer

facility it is brought to the nearest Covanta Energy‐from‐Waste (EfW) facility where the 

gear is converted into electricity for local communities (See Figure 2). 

When a port has been approved and has agreed to partner with the Fishing for Energy

program, media event logistics (if applicable to that port) are also worked out.  Positive, 

widespread media attention is an important objective for this program, especially since it is

a young program with potential to expand.  The diverse group of partners involved in each 

port, each with different capabilities for reaching different audiences has gained 

widespread recognition to the program within the Northeast and elsewhere.  Media events 

have a number of different roles in the program: first and foremost they are important 

opportunities to inform local fishermen and community members of the disposal service 

provided by the program; secondly, events are also excellent opportunities to increase

program and partner visibility within the local community; lastly, they bring the issue of 

marine debris to the forefront of public awareness, and local dignitaries along with state 

and federal legislators who are invited to media events further increase that visibility.  

Events are coordinated with local partners and held on site.  Press releases and advisories 

are sent out to local media prior to the event.

Results

Thirteen ports in five states have participated in the program since February 2008.  From

these ports Fishing for Energy has collected over 180 tons of gear as of June 1, 2009, 

44
                         

   

               

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

involving 28 partners outside of the core Fishing for Energy partners (See Appendix B).  

Eight media events have been held (see Table 1, ports listed in bold) and have received a

significant degree of press attention in local and national media markets for the issue of 

marine debris and derelict fishing gear in the port areas.  An estimated two million media 

impressions to‐date have been generated from more than 30 news stories in print, radio, 

TV news and the web from around the country.  Two cable network shows have 

demonstrated interest in featuring the program; one filmed in fall 2008 and is pending 

broadcast, the other is in development at the time of writing.

‐ Port Location ‐ Schnitzer Steel Facility  ‐ Covanta Energy Facility

45
Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States: A com

summary reports 

Figure 3 ‐ Gear Collected To‐Date by

Table 1 ‐ Gear Collected To‐Dat(ports in bold have hosted med

Port Location Total Sh

Tons 

New Bedford, MA 18.31  Gloucester, MA  9.16  Brookhaven, NY  16.89  Hyannis, MA  6.95  Scituate, MA 4.425  Newport, RI 5.56  Cape May, NJ 46.3  Provincetown, MA 7.65  Wellfleet, MA  27.86  Point Judith, RI  19.44  Chatham, MA 8.61  Sandwich, MA 17.52  Portland, ME TBD  Garibaldi, OR TBD  

Newport, OR TBD  TOTAL 182.4 

46
                   

           

   

   

   

   

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Discussion/Conclusion

There are few limitations to the geographic potential of the Fishing for Energy program.

The most restrictive limitation, which to date has not been a significant barrier to the ports 

we have targeted, is the transportation distances from a port to a processing facility.  As a

majority of services to the program are provided as in‐kind contributions of time (travel, 

meetings) and services (gear processing, bin rental price discounts) real prohibitive costs 

factor in to the need to transport gear large distances.  Thusly tied to partner facility 

locations, Fishing for Energy has not entertained serious bids for bins in the Carolinas, the 

Gulf States (excluding Florida), Alaska, and to a lesser extent California.  These states are by 

no means excluded from participating in the future and in fact work is currently underway

to revise the current business model to accommodate these locations. 

Another challenge the program has had to overcome is in gathering gear collection

information needed for comprehensive evaluation of the program.  While we have the

ability to track total weight of gear collected, there is currently no mechanism in place to 

track each of the different gear types and the volume or weight for each category.  While

specific gear types are not tracked, gear that is collected is separated out and tracked in 

‘metal’ and ‘non‐metal’ categories.  The amount of metal collected and recycled through the 

program is determined by subtracting the final load weight numbers entering the Covanta

facility for processing from the weight numbers entering the Schnitzer Steel facility straight 

from the port.  This method is generally suitable for determining how much gear is being 

recycled, and how much is diverted from landfill into the Energy‐from‐Waste (EfW) 

process.  There is however, the potential to lose some accuracy of the figures on a location 

by location basis, since often times (for cost purposes) loads of gear will be held at the 

Schnitzer facility until there is enough to make one large haul to a Covanta facility.  In these

instances, when weights are taken, if the load brought to Covanta is from multiple ports,

that information is unfortunately lost.  As a measure to overcome this we estimate that 

15% of the gear collected is metal and calculations made accordingly, unless we know 

specifically otherwise (See Figure 1). 

The diversity of port partners leads to both challenges for implementation and 

opportunities for promoting awareness of marine debris issues, as each port has different 

management structures, available manpower, marine debris disposal needs and 

connections to local fishermen and stakeholders.  For example, in certain areas fishermen 

operate out of managed centralized ports with a defined and organized authority; others 

operate out of commercial processing plants (fish houses); others out of municipally‐ or 

state‐owned piers.  Some have ample manpower at their disposal to involve in the 

program; others do not and rely more heavily on fishermen volunteers to assist in

coordinating events and managing the disposal bin.  Just as there are local differences from 

port to port, there can also be significant differences from state to state.  Regulations

pertaining to handling fishing gear can vary from one state to the next, and these

regulations are an important consideration for each new port to ensure the program does 

not violate, or promote or encourage others to violate, existing laws.  In any case, 

identifying and involving the proper management or regulatory authority, as well as the 

47
                   

           

   

   

   

   

   

   

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

appropriate local contacts with ties to fishermen and conservation groups is a critical first 

step in implementing a successful program.  Regardless of the capacity of the port, the most 

successful results are realized (in terms of media “reach”, fisherman participation and, of 

course, gear collected) when the local partner(s) takes a proactive role in implementing the 

program in their port.

While the main component to the program is gear collection and disposal, to further 

enhance the conservation impact of the program, we are interested in helping ports 

currently participating in the partnership to promote locally‐targeted outreach and 

education on the issues of derelict fishing gear.  We have expanded the program in 2009 

through a five‐year commitment by Covanta and the NOAA Marine Debris Program to 

support not only gear disposal, but through providing seed‐grant funding to ports, local 

government and conservation organizations in the area to increase capacity and

coordination in addressing marine debris locally and to implement pilot incentive 

programs to increase fishermen participation in debris removal.  This will be announced in

late‐summer 2009.  The partners also continue to have a presence at local coastal/marine 

related events to enhance awareness about Fishing for Energy, and to coordinate with state 

agencies on opportunities to expand port‐based collection sites to become comprehensive 

state‐wide collection events.

As fishing fleets continually adapt to regulatory changes, as well as changes in supply and 

demand for fish products, there is a growing need for economical and environmentally 

sound opportunities for disposal of gear within the industry.  Providing this service with a

minimal amount of barriers, especially economic ones, to fishermen and others is the

surest way of ensuring as much participation as possible.  Without a doubt, Fishing for

Energy has been successful due to the enthusiasm of participating fishermen and port 

partners, and the leveraging of shared resources from all participants to achieve the 

common goal of marine debris reduction in these port areas.  United States Senator 

Sheldon Whitehouse has called Fishing for Energy a “collaborative and innovative project 

[that] will turn an environmental hazard and burden on local fishermen into an

opportunity”.  In the absence of a comprehensive national program to remediate derelict 

fishing gear, it will be individual, locally‐driven programs such as Fishing for Energy that

stand to make the most initial progress.  By providing fishermen a place to dispose of 

derelict gear they come across while on the water, and by easing the burden of high costs 

associated with disposing of old fishing gear into landfills, Fishing for Energy works to 

prevent the possibility of creating ‘new’ derelict gear one port at a time.   

Literature Cited

Marine Debris Research, Prevention, and Reduction Act, Public Law 109‐449 

“Tackling Marine Debris in the 21st Century”, National Research Council.  National Academy

of Sciences, 2008.

48
                   

           

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

49
                   

           

       

   

   

       

   

   

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Appendix B

Fishing for Energy Partners 2008­2009

Core Partners

 Covanta Energy

 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
 

 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 

 Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.
 

Port / Event Partners

 ABC Disposal

 Atlantic Offshore Lobstermen’s Association – Rhode Island 

 Blue Diamond Disposal – New Jersey

 Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – New Jersey 

 City of Gloucester (Harbormaster and Department of Public Works) – Massachusetts 

 City of Portland – Maine

 Cote Fisheries Inc. – Hyannis, MA

 Garden State Seafood Association – New Jersey 

 Lund’s Fisheries – New Jersey 

 Nantucket Soundkeepers – Massachusetts 

 New Bedford Harbor Development Commission – Massachusetts 

 New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

 Office of Bill Delahunt, United States Representative for the 10th District of Massachusetts 

 Office of Jeff Van Drew, State Senator – New Jersey

 Office of Sarah Peake, State Representative for the 4th Barnstable District – Massachusetts 

 Office of Sheldon Whitehouse, United States Senator – Rhode Island

 Palombo Fishing Corp. – Rhode Island

 Portland Fish Exchange – Maine

 Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies – Massachusetts 

 Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management

 Stellwagen Alive – Massachusetts 

 Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary – Massachusetts

 Town of Brookhaven – New York 

 Town of Chatham – Massachusetts

 Town of Provincetown (Harbormaster and Department of Public Works) – Massachusetts 

 Town of Scituate – Massachusetts 

 Town of Wellfleet – Massachusetts

 Troiano Waste Services 

50
                         

               

     

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Hawai‘i Marine Debris Action Plan: Statewide collaboration to

address marine debris

Carey Morishige1 and Kris McElwee1

1National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Debris Program / I.M. Systems Group, Inc.

Abstract

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Marine Debris Program (MDP) has 

been a partner in efforts to combat marine debris in Hawai‘i since 2005.  Across the

Hawaiian Archipelago, a number of efforts are taking place to address the impacts of 

marine debris.  In order to prioritize Hawai‘i marine debris issues, coordinate between 

projects, and create a strategic plan of action, the MDP supported statewide planning 

workshops that began in June 2007. From the initial workshop, partnerships were created 

and a commitment made to develop a Hawai‘i Marine Debris Action Plan (HI‐MDAP), the 

first statewide action plan in the nation to comprehensively address the issue of marine 

debris.  The HI‐MDAP includes greater coordination among partners, identification of

potential avenues for funding, and increased communication. The development and 

implementation of the HI‐MDAP is being supported by the MDP with assistance from the

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9.  

Introduction

The Hawaiian Archipelago, extending 1,500 miles, is one of the longest and most remote 

island chains in the world.  The Hawaiian Islands are prone to accumulating marine debris 

due to their proximity to the North Pacific Subtropical Convergence Zone, an area where 

ocean currents accumulate marine debris (Pichel et al., 2007).  Each year, thousands of

pounds of marine debris from domestic and foreign sources wash ashore and snag on reefs 

across the island chain.  In Hawai‘i, as well as other parts of the world, marine debris 

threatens marine ecosystems, safe navigation, and wildlife. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric 

Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris 

Program (MDP) has been a partner in 

efforts to combat marine debris in Hawai‘i 

since 2005.  The MDP works in 

cooperation with partners across the U.S. 

and internationally to address marine

debris. Around the Hawaiian Archipelago, 

a number of efforts are taking place to

address the impacts of marine debris.  

51
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Methodology

In order to prioritize Hawai‘i marine debris issues, coordinate between projects, and 

facilitate greater collaboration between entities involved in addressing marine debris in 

Hawai‘i, the MDP supported a pre‐planning workshop in Honolulu, June 2007. 

On January 15, 2008, the MDP

coordinated a NOAA in Hawai‘i marine 

debris workshop in order to prioritize

marine debris issues and activities by 

NOAA in Hawai‘i.  The information and 

feedback from this NOAA meeting,

combined with the pre‐planning meeting, 

went in to planning a 2‐day Hawai‘i

Marine Debris Workshop, January 16‐17,

2008 in Honolulu. 

The Hawai‘i Marine Debris Workshop 

brought together over 30 representatives 

from government, academia, 

nongovernmental organizations, and private businesses working to address the issue of 

marine debris in Hawai‘i. At this workshop, information on marine debris activities and 

priorities, in both the main and Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, was discussed.  From this

workshop, partnerships were created and a commitment made to begin the development 

of a Hawai‘i Marine Debris Action Plan (HI‐MDAP), which would include greater 

coordination among partners, identification of potential avenues for funding, and increased 

communication. The development and implementation of the HI‐MDAP is being supported 

by the MDP and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9.  A summary report from 

this meeting is available online at http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/projects/himdap.html. 

To begin creating the HI‐MDAP, three 

focus area workshops were held between 

October and November 2008. Each 

workshop focused on one or two of the

five identified focus areas for the HI‐

MDAP: 1) Research and Assessment, 2)

Outreach and Education, 3) Land‐based 

Debris Prevention, 4) Beach Cleanup, and 

5) In‐water Removal and Prevention. 

Representatives from all sectors 

participated in these workshops and 

crafted objectives for each focus area.

Information on past and ongoing 

activities was gathered so that a record of 

what was done could be compiled and built upon.  New actions were then brainstormed 

and discussed in detail.  Feasible priority actions that could be completed within the next 

52
Marine    Debris Prevention                      Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

three years were identified.  During these meetings, a commitment was made by the group 

to continue to meet twice a year, implement priority activities, and update the action plan 

as needed.

The MDP has consolidated 

information for various

new actions with 

assistance from HI‐MDAP

partners. In order to

prioritize strategic new

actions to pursue under 

the HI‐MDAP, a tool known

as a “results chain” will be 

used.  A results chain is a

"tool that clarifies

assumptions about how

activities or actions 

contribute to reducing

threats and achieving 

conservation targets" thus 

allowing for more strategic 

prioritization of those

activities or actions (NFWF, 2008).  A results chain for marine debris in the Northwestern 

Hawaiian Islands has been started by the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument 

(PMNM).

In fall 2009, the NOAA MDP will coordinate two meetings in order to collaboratively 

finalize the HI‐MDAP with all partners involved.  The first meeting will be a small group 

workshop to flesh out and build upon the results chains completed by the PMNM.  The

results of this meeting will then be used in a larger workshop with all HI‐MDAP partners.  

During this workshop, priority actions will be reviewed and any identified gaps filled. 

In January 2010, a meeting to roll out the new Hawai‘i Marine Debris Action Plan to key 

decision makers, managers, and potential supporters will be held.  Information on priority 

actions in each focus area will be presented by the lead partners. This meeting will help 

raise awareness of the problem of marine debris in Hawai‘i and highlight the successful and 

ongoing partnerships that are formalized within the new action plan. 

More information on all of these meetings can be found on the HI‐MDAP website, created 

by and for all of the various partners, at http://sites.google.com/site/himdap/. 

53
Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States: A com

summary reports ResultsParticipantsPartners of the HI‐MDAP include, but are not limited to: 

 Archinoetics Chris Woolaway and Associates, LLC

 City and County of Honolulu, Department of

Parks and Recreation

 City and County of Honolulu, Department of

Environmental Services

 Community Work Day Program

 County of Hawai‘i, Parks and Recreation,

Aquatics

 Enchanted Lake Residents Association

 Hawai‘i and Pacific Islands Ocean Observing

System

 Hawai‘i Pacific University

 Hawai‘i Wildlife Fund

 Kini Beach Malama Na 'Apapa

 NOAA Fisheries Service, Recreational

Fisheries

 NOAA Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale

National Marine Sanctuary

 NOAA Marine Debris Program NOAA Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center

 NOAA Pacific Services Center

 NOAA PIRO Observer Program

 NOAA Restoration Center Oceanic Institute Oceanit Oikonos ‐ Ecosystem Knowledge

 Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument

 Sea Turtles International

 Sheavly Consultants

 State of Hawai‘i, Coastal Zone Management

Program

 State of Hawai‘i, Department of Business,

Economic Development, and Tourism

 State of Hawai‘i, Department of Health, Clean

Water Branch, Polluted Runoff Control Program

 State of Hawai‘i, Department of Land and Natural

Resources, Division of Aquatic Resources

 State of Hawai‘i, Department of Land and Natural

Resources, Division of Boating and Ocean

Recreation

 State of Hawai‘i, Kahoolawe Island Reserve

Commission

 TetraTech U.S.U.S. Coast Guard

 U.S.U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region

9, PICO Office

 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

 University of Hawai‘i Sea Grant College Program

 University of Hawai‘i, Center for Microbial

Oceanography: Research and Education

 U.S. Navy Region Hawai‘i Western Pacific Regional Fisheries Management

Council

54
Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United States: A com

summary reports Focus Area ObjectivesNew ActionsExamples of new action items under each focus area: 

 Research and assessment ‐ Assess distribution and accumulation rates of derelict fishing gear in hig In‐water debris removal and prevention ‐ Compile current knowledge, methods/techniques, inform

resources/expertise for in‐water debris removal. 

 Beach cleanup ‐ Create a standard operating procedure or work plan for high risk/priority marine d Outreach and education ‐ Develop signage on impacts of marine debris at public shorelines, marina

beach parks, storm drains, etc.

 Land‐based debris prevention ‐ Replicate monofilament recovery and recycling project (e.g., U.S. so

Hawai‘i 

55
                         

       

         

                        

  

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

Conclusions

Through this process many important lessons were learned.  

1.	 The process cannot be rushed.  Initially we thought that all of the partners could be 

brought together, collaboration could occur, and priority actions created within a 

couple of meetings.  Over two years later, the planning and coordination are still 

ongoing.  We wanted to ensure that not only were all of the marine debris entities in 

Hawai‘i involved, but that the plan and priority actions included in the plan were 

both feasible and effective.  Additionally we wanted to ensure that the plan itself

would remain dynamic and not sit on a shelf once it was completed.  Continued

communication and collaboration to implement the various priority actions within 

the plan are critical to thoroughly addressing marine debris in Hawai‘i. 

2.	 There exists a “strategic learning curve.”  We incorporated strategic planning tools 

and terminology in our action plan workshops not realizing that 1) not everyone 

was familiar with strategic planning, and 2) folks had differing definitions of various

strategic planning terms (e.g., objective). 

3.	 To obtain strategic action results, you must be strategic in your planning. Because of

the difficulty folks were having with strategic planning tools and terminology we 

had incorporated into the workshops, we decided to skip it and move on with 

building the action plan.  We realized that what resulted was a laundry‐list of 

everyone’s favorite projects versus a list of prioritized and strategic actions.  This is 

the reason for the fall 2009 meetings and the incorporation of the results chain tool.

Overall, the process to create a comprehensive, statewide Hawai‘i Marine Debris Action 

Plan has been a learning experience, but a successful one.  There has been a notable 

increase in collaboration and cooperation between marine debris entities across the state.

Information is being shared on activities and projects, and being built upon instead of being 

“reinvented” by different entities.  This plan has already been successful in bringing 

together the numerous partners across the state of Hawai‘i to work collaboratively to 

better address the problem of marine debris.

Literature Cited

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). 2008. Results Chains: A Tool for Measuring 

Effectiveness and Attributing Change to Conservation Programs. Available at 

http://www.nfwf.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentD

isplay.cfm&CONTENTID=10751. 

Pichel, W., J. Churnside, T. Veenstra, D. Foley, K. Friedman, R. Brainard, J. Nicoll, Q. Zheng, P. 

Clemente‐Colon. 2007. Marine debris collects within the North Pacific Subtropical 

Convergence Zone. Marine Pollution Bulletin 54: 1207‐1211.

56
                   

           

                 

  

                             

                   

                           

                     

             

                             

                                 

                       

  

                           

                           

                                 

                

                             

                   

          

                 

       

               

           

               

               

               

                 

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Campaigns that Teach: Diving deeper into marine debris education

Carey Morishige1

1

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Marine Debris Program / I.M. Systems Group, Inc. 

Abstract

In response to a mandate from the Marine Debris Research, Prevention and Reduction Act of

2006, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program

(MDP) has worked with its partners to create a Web‐based educational campaign for marine

debris awareness and prevention. This campaign includes resources designed specifically for

several target audiences, including boaters/mariners, students/educators, beachgoers, fishers

as well as the general public. Each product provides information on the impacts of marine

debris and suggestions on how to become part of the solution no matter where you live. The

information is easily accessible, free, and downloadable via the MDP website at

www.marinedebris.noaa.gov.

Introduction

Marine debris is everyone’s problem. It is a global problem affecting everything from the

environment to the economy; from fishing and navigation to human health and safety; from

the tiniest coral polyps to giant blue whales. Marine debris also comes in many forms, from a

cigarette butt to a 4,000‐pound derelict fishing net.

Marine debris is any persistent solid material that is manufactured or processed and directly or

indirectly, intentionally or unintentionally, disposed of or abandoned into the marine

environment or the Great Lakes.

In an effort to combat this problem, the National

Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

implemented its Marine Debris Program, a national and

international effort focused on identifying, reducing

and preventing debris in the marine environment. As

part of this program, NOAA has developed this

educational website to inform people on the sources,

impacts, and solutions of the marine debris issue.

57
                   

           

             

                 

             

           

                 

             

               

               

             

                           

                               

                            

         

             

           

       

       

           

           

      

             

               

   

                             

                      

                     

   

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Methodology

The Web‐based educational campaign, called “Marine Debris

101” was produced for the NOAA Marine Debris Program

(MDP) under NOAA contract number AB133F06CN0193 by

Sheavly Consultants, Virginia Beach, Virginia in close

collaboration with the MDP and other partners including Katie

Register, Christine Woolaway, and Bertha Walker; web

programmer Brian Edwards; graphic designers J. Michael Myers

and Wendy Kelly; writer/editor Sara McPherson; and NOAA

project advisers Megan Forbes and Jim Coe.

Once the educational campaign was created, the website was posted live and announced by

former First Lady Laura Bush during a ceremony to announce a new Marine Debris Initiative on

November 2, 2007. Immediately, hits on the MDP website went from an average of

50,000/month to over 140,000 hits/month.

Results

Marine Debris 101 consists of a website,

accessible through the MDP’s website at

www.marinedebris.noaa.gov, as well as

downloadable materials geared specifically

towards four main target audiences: 1)

Beachgoer, 2) Fisher, 3) Boater/Marina Owner,

and 4) Student/Educator.

The website is divided into three main

sections: 1) Resources, 2) What You Can Do,

and 3) Publications.

Resources (http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/marinedebris101/resource.html)

Under “Resources” you will find links to all of the Marine Debris 101 materials including

brochures, fact sheets, posters/placards, and guidebooks. Additional materials may be found

on the MDP Outreach and Education webpage under “NOAA Educational Resources”

(http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/outreach/welcome.html).

58
                   

           

         

           

                       

                       

                     

   

                     

               

                 

                         

                           

                 

                     

   

                     

                     

   

   

                         

                           

       

                     

                     

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Marine Debris 101 materials include:

Brochures

Marine Debris: Understanding and Preventing Marine Debris

This concise brochure provides a basic understanding of marine debris, its sources

and impacts and offers readers suggestions to help solve this global problem.

Land‐Based Sources of Marine Debris: How People Can Prevent Marine Debris

While on Land

Learn how land‐based sources contribute to marine debris and discover potential

solutions to the problem with this handy brochure.

Fishing and Marine Debris: How Fishermen Can Prevent Marine Debris

With this brochure, fishermen can learn about the sources of marine debris, its

effects on the marine environment and steps they can take to help reduce the

amount of debris that enters the oceans and waterways.

Boating and Marine Debris: How Recreational Boaters and Marina Owners Can

Prevent Marine Debris

This brochure educates boaters on the problem of marine debris ‐ its sources,

causes and impacts ‐ and how they can become part of the solution.

Fact Sheets

Marine Debris Facts

Learn how marine debris has become one of the most pervasive pollution problems

facing the world's oceans and waterways and what can be done to solve the

problem.

Land‐Based Sources of Marine Debris

Learn how land‐based sources contribute to the marine debris problem affecting

our oceans and waterways and discover potential solutions to the issue.

59
                   

           

                         

                             

                     

                             

                               

         

           

                         

                           

           

     

                         

                         

         

         

                         

                             

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Fishing Facts

This fact sheet offers important information on marine debris, its effects on marine

species and habitat, how fishermen may be part of the problem and how they can

help reduce the amount of debris that enters oceans and waterways.

Boating Facts

Boaters will learn what marine debris is, where it comes from, its impacts on the

environment and what they can do help stem the tide of debris in our oceans and

waterways with this fact sheet.

Marine Debris Legislation and Policy Fact Sheet

There are several major U.S. federal laws that address marine debris. Review this

listing to learn more about existing laws and regulations that were designed to deal

with marine debris and other pollution.

Posters/Placard

Understanding Marine Debris Poster

Designed to educate people on marine debris, its sources, impacts and ways to

prevent it, this poster provides a concise explanation of the debris problem. Poster

prints at 11" x 17".

Land‐Based Sources of Marine Debris Poster

This poster offers a succinct explanation of land‐based sources of marine debris, its

impacts and steps people can take to prevent it. Poster prints at 11" x 17".

60
                   

           

       

                         

                             

   

       

                         

                             

                 

                         

                       

                 

                         

                         

                 

                           

                         

         

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Fishing and Marine Debris Poster

This 11" x 17"poster educates fishermen on how they may contribute to marine

debris, its impacts on marine species and what they can do to help prevent this

widespread problem.

Boating and Marine Debris Poster

This poster offers boaters a concise explanation of marine debris, its causes and

impacts and steps they can take to help reduce the amount of debris that reaches

oceans and waterways. Poster prints at 11" x 17".

MARPOL Poster

Developed with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard, this 8" x 11" poster

illustrates the various waste disposal restrictions that vessels must observe while at

sea (under the MARPOL agreement and U.S. federal law).

MARPOL Placard

This 5" x 8" placard illustrates the various waste disposal restrictions that vessels

must observe while at sea (under the MARPOL agreement and U.S. federal law).

U.S. Boater & Marina Tip Sheet for Preventing Marine Debris

Boaters and marina owners can refer to this handy tip sheet to learn some simple ‐

yet effective ‐ steps they can take to help reduce the amount of marine debris that

enters the oceans and waterways.

61
                   

           

                   

                   

                           

   

                     

                 

                           

               

       

                       

                     

                 

     

     

                               

         

                 

                         

             

                   

                         

         

                       

                     

                       

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Guidebooks

Boating and Marine Debris: Boater's Guidebook to Marine Debris and

Conservation

This guidebook provides important information to understand aquatic habitats, the

effects marine debris has on them and steps boaters can take to help reduce

marine debris.

Reeling in Marine Debris: A Reference Guide to Recycling Monofilament Fishing

Line

This handy guide educates fishermen on the dangers discarded monofilament

fishing line can pose to marine life, habitats and people and offers information on

several line recycling programs throughout the United States.

Guidebook to Community Beach Cleanups

A step‐by‐step guide that provides readers with all the information they need to

conduct their own beach or waterway cleanup. The guidebook also offers

important information for those sites and coordinators participating in Ocean

Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup.

What You Can Do (http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/marinedebris101/whatcando.html)

Sorted by target audience, this section provides tips on what each person can do to help

prevent marine debris. Examples include:

 Get Involved! Participate in local cleanups in your area!

 Remember that the land and sea, no matter where you are, are connected!

 Reduce the amount of waste you produce.

 Reuse items whenever possible! Choose reusable items over disposable ones.

 Recycle as much as possible! Bottles, cans, cell phones, ink cartridges, and many

other items can be recycled!

Additionally, this section provides suggestions on volunteer activities to get involved with,

including the International Coastal Cleanup coordinated by the Ocean Conservancy, beach

cleanups with the Surfrider Foundation, and activities with Keep America Beautiful.

62
                   

           

   

                         

                     

                        

                       

                              

                    

                             

       

     

               

               

             

           

             

       

           

     

                              

                           

        

                 

               

               

           

             

                     

                

     

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Publications & References (http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/marinedebris101/publications.html)

This section contains listings of publications and references on marine debris separated into

three categories: 1) scientific references, 2) non‐peer reviewed literature, and 3) international

reports. Under “Scientific References” you will find a fairly good (though not comprehensive)

list, in alphabetical order, of peer‐reviewed scientific publications on marine debris from

around the world. Under “Non‐Peer Reviewed Literature” you will a good listing of reports and

conference proceedings dealing with marine debris from across the US. Under “International

Reports” you will find a listing of non‐peer reviewed reports on marine debris from sources

outside of the US.

Additional Resources and Materials

(http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/outreach/welco

me.html)

On the “Outreach and Education” page on the

main MDP website there are links to several

pages full of excellent resources and materials

on marine debris, including: 1) NOAA

Educational Resources, 2) Marine Debris 101, 3)

Other Educational Resources, 4) International

Resources, 5) Media, and 6) Videos.

NOAA Educational Resources (http://marinedebris.noaa.gov/outreach/NOAAres.html)

On this page you will find links to download all NOAA‐created materials on marine debris.

These materials are geared mainly towards the general public, though a few target students

and educators. These materials include:

Facts About Marine Debris & How You Can Help

An informational 1‐page handout with general information on marine

debris, including plastics, and information about marine debris

concentration in the North Pacific Ocean.

Information and Common Questions on Marine Debris

A fairly detailed handout with answers to frequently asked questions on

marine debris. All information within this document is from peer‐reviewed

and expert sources.

63
                   

           

       

                       

                   

                 

                 

                       

   

                     

                   

                       

                            

                     

                   

               

                 

                   

                         

                     

           

                       

               

                         

     

           

                       

                          

     

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

Marine Debris Impacts Poster

Created by the NOAA Marine Debris Program and University of Hawaii Sea

Grant College Program in partnership with the NOAA Hawaiian Islands

Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. This poster highlights the

impacts of marine debris, particularly entanglement and ingestion in

marine species such as the humpback whale, green sea turtle, and Hawaiian

monk seal.

Understanding Marine Debris: Games and Activities for Kids of All Ages

An assortment of puzzles, brain‐teasers, and coloring activities help children

understand the problem of marine debris while having fun at the same

time. Suitable for all ages. Pages from this activity book are also available in

Thai.

Turning the Tide on Trash: A Learning Guide on Marine Debris

Originally developed by the Environmental Protection Agency, this set of

lesson plans and background information introduces educators, students

and researchers to the topic of marine debris. The interdisciplinary

education guide is designed to provide maximum flexibility in the

classroom: it can be used as a stand‐alone teaching tool or to supplement

work in other subject areas. Appropriate for Grades 1 through 12.

NOAA Protect Our Oceans Activity Book

Created by the NOAA Marine Debris Program and Office of National Marine

Sanctuaries. Contains marine debris activities from "Understanding Marine

Debris: Games and Activities for Kids of All Ages" available in the Marine

Debris 101 section.

Marine Debris is Everyone’s Problem Poster

This poster contains general information on marine debris and what we can

do to help prevent it. This poster is also available in Spanish, French,

Japanese, and Korean.

64
                   

           

         

                         

   

           

                 

             

                      

                     

             

                       

                     

                     

                 

             

                 

             

             

               

           

                 

               

              

                               

               

                             

                          

                            

                 

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

NOAA Marine Debris Coloring Book

This coloring book contains fun pages with phrases on how we can prevent

marine debris.

Keep Oceans Clean Ocean Awareness Campaign

The Ocean Awareness campaign was created in partnership with

Environmental Defense, Disney, National Marine Sanctuary Foundation,

NOAA, and the Ad Council. This website contains fun activities, an

interactive game, and good information on how to prevent marine debris.

A Hawaiian cultural display on marine debris

A series of five display panels tying ancient Hawaiian culture and today’s

marine debris problem were created through a project coordinated by the

NOAA Pacific Services Center and funded by the NOAA Marine Debris

Program.

Conclusions

Since the onset of the use of synthetic versus

natural materials, the problem of marine debris

has become one of the most pervasive forms of

water pollution in the world. Targeted outreach

and education remains one of the easiest, low‐

cost, and effective tools to promote and foster

marine debris prevention. To ultimately prevent

marine debris at its source, there must be a

change in the behavior and mind‐set of today’s

societies and industries. However, to cause an

effective and noticeable change in behavior is one of the most difficult things to do and

measure, and one that will take time.

Measuring the effectiveness of outreach and education efforts is difficult to do and rarely gets

done. Currently, the NOAA Marine Debris Programs logs what quantitative information it can

to track outreach efforts, such as number of participants to an event or presentation. This

number, however, is in no way a measure of effectiveness.

65
                   

           

                            

                              

                               

                                

                             

   

                       

                            

                             

                             

                   

                           

                          

                 

Strategies and Activities for the Prevention of Nearshore Marine Debris

August 12‐13, 2009 | Honolulu, HI

The Web has been one of the most successful outreach and educational tools used. With

minimal effort and maintenance, you are able to reach out to thousands. The Marine Debris

101 website receives over 25% of the visits to the NOAA Marine Debris Program’s website, and

is one of the top 2 most popular sections. Additionally, the use of media (e.g., press

conferences, public service announcements, etc.) to drive visits to the website has been a huge

success.

While general outreach and educational materials are good, more effective materials include

those crafted with messages and information specific to a target audience group, are needed.

Additionally, an increase in the use of the internet and social networking tools, such as

FaceBook and Twitter, as outreach and education outlets are needed as society turns towards a

greater use of these resources for their information (TheOceanProject.org, 2009).

Overall, outreach and education remains a critical component to fighting the problem of marine

debris. Collaboration on outreach projects and materials across country borders would help in

addressing the global issue and impacts of marine debris.

66
                         

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

APPENDIX A

Project Summary Table 

67
PROJECT SUMMARY TABLE

Project name Location Brief Project Description Targeted debris Pros 

Fishing gear buybackprogram

Republic of Korea‐ 51 local areas of 38cities/towns

Incentive program to encourage fishermen to bring back marine debris

(mainly from the seabed) encountered during fishing. A small amount is

paid for marine debris brought back.

Derelict rope, derelict net,

derelict traps recovered byfishermen

‐ Cost‐effective way to remove seabed litter

‐ Helps improve fishermen recognition of marine debris impacts

‐ Provides income to fishermen

‐ Provides proper disposal option

Coastal cleanup program

Republic of Korea‐ 162 sites in 42

administrative unitsalong the coast

Coastal cleanup program to provide paying jobs for the removal of

marine debris on the coast. All types

‐ Prevents marine debris from entering the sea

‐ More cost‐effective than recovering marine debris from ocean

‐ Enhances aesthetic value of coastline‐ Job creation for the elderly‐ Education through involvement of many individuals

Marine litter treatment ‐Nakdong River (Cost‐sharing)

Republic of Korea

‐ Nakdong River

Cost‐sharing program between areas (municipals and government)

along the Nakdong River for the treatment of marine debris at the river

mouth.

Land‐based debris, domesticgarbage, lumber (also plant

material generated during rainy

season)

‐ Determines fair cost‐sharing rate based on scientific research

‐ Reduces land‐based marine debris generation

‐ Enhances cooperation among central government and local communi‐ Increases responsibility of each area‐ Demonstrates leadership in applying cost‐sharing (partly polluter‐pay

‐ Built‐in schedule for renegotiation of rates can benefit areas that imp

Floating receptacles formarine litter

Republic of Korea‐ Haenam‐gun,Cheollanam‐do

(province)

Placement of dedicated floating marine debris receptacles in port areas

for collection of derelict fishing gear.

Derelict fishing gear, ship‐generated waste, plastic bags

‐ Proximity to land makes unloading debris easy

‐ Easy for fishermen to load debris onto barge

‐ Cost‐effective to recover marine debris because of ease of disposal

‐ Low cost to make receptacles (barges)‐ Fishermen voluntarily collect and convey debris to the receptacle

‐ Enhances aesthetic value of port‐ Reduces bad smell of marine debris at port

‐ Launching and moving the barge are easy

Monofilament recycling United States

‐ Nearly all coastal states

Nationwide network of fishing line recycling bins to help anglersdispose of used fishing line.

Recreational monofilamentfishing line

‐ Applicable to (educates and raises awareness among) a large audienc

‐ Debris prevention at source‐ Makes proper disposal convenient

‐ Simple to replicate‐ Online tracking system will allow broad viewing of results

‐ Creates a beneficial by‐product

‐ Involves angler community in solution

Nets to Energy

United States‐ Hawaii

Public‐private partnership to use derelict fishing net, line, and rope to

create electricity.

derelict fishing nets and line,longline monofilament, nylon

rope

‐ Well established

‐ Good public relations for partners

‐ Keeps nets out of landfills (but see con)

‐ Raises awareness of DFG‐ "Feel good" project

‐ Disposes of debris from a broad range of removal activities

‐ Creates a beneficial by‐product

Pier 38 port reception United States

‐ Hawaii

Port receptacle for derelict nets, line, and rope. Debris from this

receptacle goes through the Nets to Energy process.

derelict fishing nets and line,longline monofilament, nylon

rope

‐ Encourages removal

‐ Makes responsible disposal convenient

‐ Good PR for longline fishermen

‐ "Feel good" project‐ Community beach cleanups feel more effective‐ Engaging fishing community in the solution

Fishing for Energy

United States‐ States along thenortheast and westcoasts

The Fishing for Energy partnership provides fishermen a no‐cost

disposal service for old or derelict fishing gear and coverts it into clean,

renewable energy, using state‐of‐the‐art energy‐from‐waste‐technology.

Fishing gear (used or derelict;

traps, nets, line, buoys, floats)

‐ Engaging fishing community in the solution

‐ Flexible/adaptable program‐ Removes barriers (e.g., cost and convenience) to responsible disposal 

‐ Increases local and regional awareness of the issue of marine debris

‐ Creates a beneficial by‐product‐ "Feel good" project

Hawaii Marine DebrisAction Plan

United States‐ Hawaii

A statewide planning process and action plan to address marine debris

impacts in Hawaii collaboratively and effectively. All types

‐ Improves coordination

‐ Builds relationships‐ Potential to focus efforts to make beneficial changes to resources

Outreach and Education ‐

Marine Debris 101

United States‐ Nationwide

A web‐based outreach and education campaign (Marine Debris 101) to

promote marine debris prevention. All types

‐ Typically inexpensive‐ Activities typically build partnerships

‐ Raises awareness‐ Behavior changes (see challenges)‐ Debris prevention

‐ Fun

68
                         

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

APPENDIX B

Meeting Agenda 

69
        

     

               

                       

                 

           

                                 

     

                 

                       

        

        

         

       

                               

           

     

       

                            

                           

                          

                   

        

AGENDA 

Day 1: August 12, 9:00am - 5:00pm 

Start time: 9:00am

9:00 ‐ 9:15 Introductions & Welcome

9:15 ‐ 9:45 History of MLTM‐NOAA joint project; Overview of agenda

9:45 ‐ 10:00 *Break*

10:00 ‐ 10:45 Buyback program for fishing gear and marine litter from fishery activity (MLTM)

10:45 ‐ 11:15 Recovery program for marine litter at the coast (MLTM)

11:15 – 12:45 Lunch (self pay)

12:45 ‐ 1:30 Cooperation program of budget sharing for the treatment cost of the marine litter at the mouth of

Nak‐dong river (MLTM)

1:30 ‐ 2:15 Managing dedicated receptacles on shipboard for marine litter (MLTM)

2:15 ‐ 2:30 *Break*

2:30 ‐ 4:30 Discussion of each activity: pros and cons? what worked? what didn't work?

End at 4:30pm

Day 2: August 13, 9:00am - 5:00pm 

Start time: 9:00am

9:00 ‐ 9:15 Overview of Day 2 agenda

9:15 ‐ 10:00 Monofilament Recycling (BoatUS Foundation)

10:00 ‐ 10:45 Nets to Energy / Fishing for Energy / Port Reception (NOAA & National Fish and Wildlife

Foundation)

10:45 ‐ 11:00 *Break*

11:00 ‐ 11:45 Hawaii Marine Debris Action Plan (NOAA)

11:45 ‐ 1:00 Lunch (self pay)

1:00 ‐ 1:30 Outreach and Education (NOAA)

1:30 ‐ 2:30 Continuation of discussion of each activity: pros and cons? what worked? what didn't work?

2:30 ‐ 2:45 *Break*

2:45 ‐ 4:00 Discussion on future partnership projects having to do with "Strategies and Activities for the

Prevention and Abatement of Nearshore Marine Debris" that come out of this workshop.

4:00 ‐ 5:00 Put together, lay out, and finalize the summary report document

End at 5:00pm

70
           

               

                  

         

         

                     

         

           

         

Day 3: August 14, 9:00am – 4:30pm 

9:00

9:00 ‐ 9:30

9:30 ‐ 10:30

10:30 ‐ 12:00

12:00

1:00 ‐ 2:00

2:15 ‐ 3:15

4:30 or so

Meet at Pier 38 ‐‐ carpool if possible

Overview and visit to Pier 38 port receptacle

Visit with Pacific Ocean Producers Fishing and Marine

Visit with longline fishing vessel

Breakfast/Lunch at Nico's (self pay)

Leave Pier 38 for Campbell Industrial Park (take 2 cars only)

Tour of Covanta Energy H‐Power

Tour of Schnitzer Steel Hawaii Corporation

Arrive back at Pier 38

71
                         

   

Marine Debris Prevention Projects and Activities in the Republic of Korea and United

States: A compilation of project summary reports 

APPENDIX C

Participant List 

72
                     

     

   

         

                     

           

   

   

                 

       

             

   

   

         

       

                 

   

   

       

                   

   

PARTICIPANT LIST 

REPUBLIC OF KOREA – Ministry of Land, Transport, and Maritime Affairs

Hae ki KIM

Deputy Director

Marine Conservation Division, Marine Policy Bureau

MLTM (Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs) Republic of Korea

Tel : 82‐2‐504‐5436 , fax : 82‐2‐503‐7303

E‐mail : seabase@korea.kr

Seondong KIM

senior researcher, Marine Safety & Pollution Response Research Department

Korea Ocean Research and Development Institute(KORDI)

+82‐42‐866‐3616(Office), +82‐42‐866‐3624(Fax)

104 Sinseong‐ro, Yuseong‐gu Daejeon 305‐343, Republic of Korea

E‐mail :sdkim@moeri.re.kr

Hyon‐Jeong NOH

Consultant (Ms.)
 

Marine Environmental Emergency Preparedness and Response
 

Regional Activity Centre (MERRAC)
 

P.O. Box 23, Yuseong, Daejeon 305‐600, Republic of Korea

(c/o MOERI/KORDI)

Tel: +82‐42‐866‐3634, Fax: +82‐42‐866‐3698

E‐mail: hjnoh@moeri.re.kr

Sanggoo HAN

Manager

Marine Environment Team, Korea Marine Environment Management Corporation(KOEM)

Haegong bldg. Samseong‐dong 71, Gangnam‐gu, Seoul, 135‐870 Republic of Korea

Tel: +82‐2‐3498‐8565, Fax: +82‐2‐3462‐7707

E‐mail: poseidon@koem.or.kr

73
       

      

      

             

     

       

         

   

       

          

           

     

     

  

  

     

   

       

       

         

     

     

  

   

   

       

       

     

       

  

BoatU.S.

Susan Shingledecker

Assistant Vice President, BoatU.S.

Director of Environmental Programs,

BoatU.S. Foundation

147 Old Solomons Island Road, Suite 513

Annapolis, MD 21401

Phone: (703) 461‐2878 x8358

Email: sshingledecker@boatus.com

www.boatus.com/foundation

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation

Thomas Barry

Assistant Director, Marine Programs

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation

1120 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 900

Washington DC, 20036

Phone: (202) 857‐0166

Email: Tom.Barry@nfwf.org

www.nfwf.org

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Kris McElwee

Pacific Islands Program Coordinator

NOAA Marine Debris Program

737 Bishop Street, Suite 2250

Honolulu, HI 96813

Phone: (808) 532‐3207

Email: Kris.McElwee@noaa.gov

www.marinedebris.noaa.gov

Carey Morishige

Outreach Coordinator

NOAA Marine Debris Program

6600 Kalanianaole Hwy., Suite 301

Honolulu, HI 96825

Phone: (808) 397‐2651 x256

Email: Carey.Morishige@noaa.gov

www.marinedebris.noaa.gov

74
United States Department of Commerce 

Gary Locke 

Secretary 

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

Jane Lubchenco, Ph.D. 

Undersecretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere 

Administrator, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 

National Ocean Service 

David Kennedy 

Acting Assistant Administrator for Ocean Services and 

Coastal Zone Management