The Hawai‘i marine debris community comes together every two years to review the 10-year Action Plan, meant to reduce the impacts of marine debris by increasing understanding of the problem, taking preventative actions, and collaborating with diverse partners on solutions. Over 30 stakeholders, representing nonprofit organizations, state agencies, academic institutions, and more, worked to review all actions, update any that may be out of date, and invite new partners to the table.

The draft updates will now undergo a thorough review by the group, who will continue regular check-ins to measure progress and find new ways to collaborate.

Marine debris is pervasive and especially difficult to address in Hawai‘i. The dense population, relatively small land mass, and geographic isolation present infrastructure and cost challenges. However, there is a dedicated marine debris community in the islands that lead by example and persistence, and a long history of community-led environmental stewardship has laid the foundation for the Action Plan. This community workshop reflects the continued commitment from partners to updating the Action Plan and to addressing the issue of marine debris across the state.