Marine Debris

Marine trash and debris pose a threat to fish, marine mammals, sea turtles, and other marine animals, cause costly delays and repairs for commercial and recreational boating interests, detract from the aesthetic quality of recreational shore fronts, and increase the cost of beach and park maintenance. Industry efforts to date have reduced, if not eliminated, trash intentionally jettisoned into the Gulf of Mexico. However, there is still a concern about accidental losses from structures and vessels. Depending upon its makeup, marine debris may sink to the seafloor, drift in the water column, or float on the surface. Certain debris, such as plastics, or glass can persist in the marine environment for hundreds of years. The effect on the visual or ecological environment is significant.