2015 TRASH TREK Challenge: Resources for FIRST LEGO Leaguers

Are you a FIRST LEGO Leaguer looking for information on marine debris for this year's TRASH TREK Challenge? You've come to the right place. The NOAA Marine Debris Program focuses on the problem of trash in our oceans and waterways. Marine debris can be a big problem for our environment, the animals that live there, and for us. It's up to us to work together to fight against marine debris. Check out our website to learn more about this issue or follow some of the links below. What is Marine Debris? Looking for some basic information to understand the issue? Check out our Discover the Issue webpage, where you can find information on the types of marine debris, why it's a problem, and some of the ways we can fight against it. Our Trash Talk videos are also a great way to learn more about this topic! What Are We Doing to Fix the Problem? Unfortunately, marine debris is a big problem and there's no easy way to fix it. However, working together, we can start to fight against marine debris and its causes. Check out our Current Efforts webpage to take a look at some of the projects that are working against marine debris. There are lots of innovative things going on and new ideas every day!

• Prevention projects work to teach people about marine debris so we can prevent more trash from becoming marine debris.
• Removal projects work to remove the marine debris that has already found its way to our oceans and waterways.
• Research projects teach us more and more about the marine debris problem.

We even support a program called Fishing for Energy that takes old fishing gear and turns it into energy to help power houses! What type of solution can you come up with? Still Not Sure What This Issue is All About? If you're looking for more information, check out our Educational Materials webpage. You'll find fact sheets as well as activities and lessons to make sure you fully understand the issue of marine debris!