Marine Debris in the Caribbean

Clear-blue waters and sandy beaches highlight the coastal areas in the Caribbean region. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands support a variety of important coastal ecosystems, such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves. The natural beauty of the Caribbean makes tourism and fishing common activities, which can create marine debris on shorelines and in coastal waters. The region is also dependent on imported goods, has solid waste management challenges, and is vulnerable to natural hazards, such as hurricanes. All of these activities and events can generate marine debris. Consumer debris, abandoned vessels, and lost fishing gear are all marine debris issues throughout the Caribbean. 

The NOAA Marine Debris Program is working with partners in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands on marine debris projects to prevent negative impacts to wildlife and coastal communities. These projects, led by our Caribbean partners, include prevention strategies and action plans, education and outreach, and removal and research efforts.