Adults

Across the Great Lakes basin, many educators are interested in the topic of marine debris but lack the resources needed to explore this topic with their students.

Marine debris can be dangerous for wildlife, damage sensitive habitats, and create safety and navigation hazards. But did you know that marine debris can also hurt the economies of coastal communities and decrease commercial fishing revenue?

Our ocean and Great Lakes are polluted with a wide variety of marine debris, ranging from large fishing nets and abandoned vessels, down to the smallest plastic particles that can’t be seen with the naked eye. These microplastics are found throughout the ocean, from tropical waters, to polar ice, and even in fresh water and the air we breathe. 

Learn more about marine debris— what it is, where it comes from, and how we can help.

Learn more about garbage patches including what they are and how we can help.

Learn more about NOAA's Marine Debris Program and our efforts to address marine debris. 

One of the main types of marine debris that you hear about today is plastic marine debris. In many places, it is the main type of debris that you will see as you walk along a beach, though perhaps not underwater. As common as they are on our beaches and in our homes, how much do you really know about plastics?

In this unit, students will explore the effects of marine debris on wildlife and coastal communities and the potential hazards it poses to humans.

In this unit, students will examine what marine debris is, where it comes from, and how it enters the marine environment.