This Strategic Plan was a collaborative effort between Puerto Rico’ stakeholders, including local, state, and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, individuals, and the private sector. Further, it is the first marine debris plan that is being coordinated by NOAA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Strategic Plan, available in both English and Spanish, has four goals: Prevention, Removal & Disposal, Emergency Response, and Coordination. Each goal has a set of three objectives that help outline specific actions to reduce the adverse impacts of aquatic debris through coordinated efforts.

Over 60 stakeholders participated in the meeting which included a virtual component during the morning of January 17, an in-person meeting on January 18, and two simultaneous trainings on the NOAA Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Project. Partners of the Strategic Plan benefited from presentations on the 2023 accomplishments, the progress of different actions, and the available resources, as well from the networking opportunities provided through the meeting. In addition to the evaluation and creation of actions, the meeting fostered stronger partnerships, the creation of new workgroups, and a better understanding of the available education and funding resources.