Marine Debris in the Pacific Islands

The Pacific Ocean bonds and connects many islands and people. These communities share in the art and science of traditional navigation, which has fostered an intimate connection to the ocean over many generations. Today, these island communities also share in the struggle of mitigating marine debris as they work to protect the ocean. 

The Pacific Islands Region is the Marine Debris Program’s largest geographic region. Pacific Ocean currents carry marine debris from afar to these remote archipelagos, making even its uninhabited islands home to some of the most polluted beaches in the world. The Marine Debris Program works with local partners to address marine debris in the Pacific Islands through removals and prevention through education and outreach.