Reducing Waste at Aquariums Across the United States

The Aquarium Conservation Partnership is working with member aquariums and zoos to raise awareness and reduce sources of plastic marine debris. 

Type of Project: Prevention

Region: National

Project Dates: January 2025 - December 2026

Who is involved?

With funding from the NOAA Marine Debris Program, the Aquarium Conservation Partnership and the Monterey Bay Aquarium are working with select member aquariums and zoos to reduce single-use plastics in their operations and raise awareness of sources of marine debris. Verdis Group will develop a public dashboard to share the impact of the project over time. 

What is the project and why is it important?

Single-use items, such as food wrappers, beverage bottles, utensils, and other items that are a part of our everyday lives, are some of the most common items found on shorelines across the globe. These items, which are often made of plastic that does not degrade or break down like other materials do, can cause serious harm to sensitive habitats and wildlife, and can significantly impact local economies.

The Aquarium Conservation Partnership is working across their network to reduce these potential sources of marine debris at member zoos and aquariums. Through in-person and digital campaigns, member aquariums will educate, engage, and inspire aquarium audiences to take action to reduce the sources of plastic marine debris. As a part of this campaign, seven aquariums will create and install educational signage on marine debris, efforts that the member aquariums are taking to reduce waste, and actions visitors can take at home to make a difference. Participating aquariums include the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Seattle Aquarium, Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium, The Florida Aquarium, Steinhart Aquarium at the California Academy of Sciences, Shedd Aquarium, and The Maritime Aquarium of Norwalk.

Project partners are also developing a tool to understand and track types of single-use plastics used in member operations, as well as information on waste infrastructure and barriers to change. Milestones will be available in a public dashboard developed by the Verdis Group.