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 "Citizen Pollution Patrols", In the monitoring and reporting of marine debris. The 

 first year of this pilot study has been completed, and the results indicate that it is 

 possible to use properly trained volunteers to collect statistically valid information 

 on marine debris. This represents an excellent opportunity to obtain reliable data 

 to better help determine where marine debris is coming from and develop control 

 strategies. 



In addition, over the last several years, EPA has conducted field 

 Investigations of the land-based sources of debris and prepared reports assessing 

 plastics problems in U.S. harbors. To characterize the floating debris in U.S. 

 harbors, EPA surveyed harbors in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore. 

 Norfolk, Miami, Houston, San Juan, Meyoguez, Seattle, Tacoma, San Francisco, 

 Oakland, and Honolulu. In general, plastics comprised over 80% of the debris. 



During these field studies of marine debris, we noted that plastic pellets, 

 which are the raw feedstock for manufacturing plastic items, were virtually 

 ubiquitous. As a result, we have worked with the Society of Plastics Industry to 

 establish an awareness campaign throughout the industry on the effects of plastic 

 pellets released into the environment. EPA has recently completed a report on this 

 subject, including possible control measures. 



