Ocean Garbage Strategic Plan Released

The plan was developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and a variety of local and environmental groups. Garbage and debris in the ocean has been a growing problem, especially since the discovery of a massive floating patch of plastic garbage was discovered in the Pacific Ocean.

"The Hawaiian Archipelago acts as a giant comb, collecting large swaths of marine debris circulating on ocean currents in the Pacific. Whales, turtles, monk seals and seabirds can be killed, injured or made sick when they eat or become entangled in marine debris, which also can damage coral reefs.

In addition, marine debris can create navigation hazards and threaten public health and safety.

Morishige said many of the partners who helped develop the Hawai'i Marine Debris Plan already are involved in debris removal, research, education and prevention activities."