Avoid, Intercept, and Redesign: A Marine Debris Prevention Initiative in Hawai‘i

Parley Foundation implemented a marine debris prevention initiative focused on the impacts of derelict fishing gear and single-use items in Hawai‘i.  

Type of Project: Prevention

Region: Pacific Islands

Project Dates: September 2022 - February 2024

Who was involved?

With the support of the NOAA Marine Debris Program, Parley Foundation in collaboration with Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii, Zero Waste O‘ahu, Nā Kama Kai, Huli, and Kahākūkahi, carried out a marine debris prevention initiative focused on awareness and education surrounding the impacts of derelict fishing gear and single-use items.

What was the project and why is it important?

Derelict fishing gear, such as lines, nets, and rope, that is lost or discarded harms coral reefs and native ecosystems by entangling wildlife and habitat, creating navigational hazards, and introducing species that could potentially become invasive. Similarly, single-use items can impact wildlife through ingestion, physical injury, and even death if they enter our waterways and ocean. Hawai‘i is impacted by both of these common types of marine debris as the archipelago is close to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. 

The Parley Foundation and project partners implemented the AIR Strategy (Avoid, Intercept and Redesign) to prevent marine debris. They hosted Ocean Stewardship Clinics and beach cleanups that took youth directly to the ocean to learn about environmental issues, become inspired, and create lasting solutions. Following these clinics and cleanups, students visited the Parley AIR Station, a collaborative community hub dedicated to inspiring action for the ocean, where they participated in educational presentations, interactive social events, and upcycling workshops. 

The Parley Foundation and partners reached over 18,000 individuals through educational sessions at the Parley AIR Station, Ocean Stewardship Clinics, and beach cleanups. They upcycled and repurposed at least 2,500 pounds of plastics to encourage thinking outside the box and the redesign of materials. Project participants spread awareness that their consumer choices can have the power to reduce the impacts of marine debris on wildlife and the ocean.

What were the results? 

Parley Foundation and partners reached 18,201 individuals through educational sessions at the Parley AIR Station. Through 20 Ocean Stewardship Clinics and over 16 beach cleanups they supported 317 youth in their journeys to become environmental stewards. Cleanups resulted in nearly 6,000 pounds of debris removed. 5,000 pounds was repurposed into various items, such as carabiners and hand planes for bodysurfing. 

Project participants now have an understanding that their choices can have the power to reduce the impacts of marine debris on wildlife and the ocean.

For more information about this project, visit the Marine Debris Program Clearinghouse.