Marine Debris in Florida: Sources, Impacts and Solutions – Leonardo Mata

Marine debris brings hazards to marine life and impacts both global and local ecosystems. Leonardo Mata will discuss some of the leading causes, and how local residents can work to prevent it.

Ongoing Exhibit

The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve is hosting a new thought-provoking free exhibit, “When Trash Meets the Sea,” that explores how everyday trash ends up in local rivers, bays and oceans, and its negative impact on wildlife.

Of the 275 million metric tons of plastic waste generated in 2010, it is estimated that 8 million metric tons ended up in the ocean. This exhibit illustrates how that process takes place and ways to reduce marine debris.