71 



9 

 Whether from land or from ships, the biggest source of debris to our 

 waterways is people who do not know or do not cere about the impacts of trash. 

 The challenge before us is to change the understanding and attitude of these 

 people, and Implement cost effective, environmentally acceptable alternatives. 



Certainly, one key element to meeting that challenge is the effective use of 

 enforcement as a deterrent, and EPA will continue to work with the USCG end 

 provide assistance with regard to enforcement of laws governing disposal of 

 wastes generated by ships. However, control of marine debris does not begin and 

 end solely with enforcement, nor is marine debris solely a matter of concern due to 

 vessels. Rather, consideration must be given to all sources of marine debris and 

 effective measures, including both public education and regulatory controls, 

 developed end Implemented. EPA Is developing and sponsoring such activities in 

 order to address the many sources of marine debris and will continue its efforts in 

 cooperation with other Federal agencies. 



This concludes my testimony and I would be pleased to answer any 

 questions you might have. 



