Marine debris is a pervasive national and global problem that harms wildlife, navigation safety, ecosystem health, and the economy. The transformational projects selected under these nationwide competitive funding opportunities will not only remove marine debris, but address some of its greatest impacts by targeting the largest and most damaging debris and preventing its reaccumulation in the environment. All recipients are encouraged to support the principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion when performing their work, including working with tribal, environmental justice, and fishing communities that traditionally have been underserved.

These competitions focused on two priority areas. The first funding opportunity focused on the removal of large-scale marine debris, such as abandoned and derelict vessels and derelict fishing gear. The second funding opportunity focused on marine debris removal through the deployment and management of proven debris interception technologies.