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# Marine Debris

## It's a Global Problem

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*Marine debris is defined as 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. There is no part of the world left untouched by debris and its impacts. It is one of the most widespread pollution problems facing the world's ocean and waterways.*

Can debris degrade on its own in the environment?-   OCEAN FACT

Learn about the issue of marine debris-   EDUCATION

Microplastics-   OCEAN FACT

NOAA Marine Debris Program
The NOAA Marine Debris Program envisions the global ocean and its coasts free from the impacts of marine debris. The mission of the NOAA Marine Debris Program is to investigate and prevent the adverse impacts of marine debris. 

Great Pacific Garbage Patch
The name "Pacific Garbage Patch" has led many to believe that this area is a large and continuous patch of easily visible marine debris items such as bottles and other litter—akin to a literal island of trash that should be visible with satellite or aerial photographs. This is not the case.

Monitoring Toolbox
Join the citizen science initiative that engages NOAA partners and volunteers across the nation to survey and record the amount and types of marine debris on shorelines. 

TRASH TALK
This Regional Emmy award-winning series helps students understand the impact of marine debris and what we can do about it. In addition to the video, there is a webinar for educators. 

Marine Debris: In Depth-   EXPLAINER

Ten Things You Should Know About Marine Debris-   EDUCATION

How Can I Help?-   RESOURCES

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