Marine plastic cleanup

Marine plastic cleanup refers to efforts aimed at removing plastic debris from oceans, seas, and coastal environments. With millions of tons of plastic entering marine ecosystems every year, this pollution threatens marine life, damages habitats, and disrupts food chains. Plastic waste—ranging from large fishing nets to microplastics—can persist in the ocean for hundreds of years. Cleanup initiatives target floating plastics, coastal litter, and underwater debris to reduce the harm caused to marine organisms such as fish, seabirds, and turtles, which often ingest or become entangled in plastic waste.

Various organizations and technologies are now tackling marine plastic pollution through both large-scale and community-based efforts. Floating barrier systems, cleanup vessels, and autonomous devices are being deployed in areas like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch to collect plastic efficiently. Coastal cleanups led by volunteers, NGOs, and local governments play a key role in reducing land-based plastic leakage. However, experts emphasize that cleanup alone is not enough—prevention through waste reduction, better plastic management, and education is critical to long-term success. Marine plastic cleanup is a vital step toward restoring ocean health, protecting biodiversity, and ensuring the sustainability of marine resources for future generations. Every piece of plastic removed from the ocean brings us closer to cleaner, healthier seas.