Marine Plastic Pollution in Delaware
Resources for Delawareans
Plastics make up the vast majority of all marine debris and have been detected on shorelines of all continents around the world. Although marine plastics are found in coastal and marine habitats, the main sources of marine plastics are land-based. This ever-present form of marine pollution is largely introduced into the environment through improper or ineffective waste management, dumping or littering (both intentional and accidental), and/or through storm-water runoff. Larger plastic products eventually degrade and break down into smaller and smaller pieces until they finally become microplastics (plastic pieces smaller than 5 mm in size). Marine plastics of all sizes can threaten wildlife, coastal tourism, human health, and food safety.
Below are programs, initiatives, and resources developed to understand and address marine plastic pollution in Delaware:
In Delaware, researchers have found plastic fibers to be the most common type of microplastic encountered in our tributaries and the inland bays. Check out our microfiber fact sheet for tips on how to help reduce plastic microfiber plastic emissions
Find coastal litter clean-up opportunities in Delaware
Check out Under the Scope, to find out more about what local researchers are learning about microplastics in Delaware’s waters.
Delaware’s Office of the Governor has a Keep Delaware Litter Free initiative and has established a Delaware Anti-Litter Alliance to encourage residents to not litter, pursue litter prevention policies, and organize annual clean-ups.
The Mid-Atlantic Regional Council on the Ocean has established a Marine Debris Work Groups to address marine debris topics in the Mid-Atlantic, such as balloon release reduction campaign, marine debris mapping, and marine debris summits.