Marine Debris Project Removes 147,000 Pounds and Rescues Turtles

The Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project (PMDP) has successfully completed its 2026 field season, achieving a significant milestone by removing more than 147,000 pounds of marine debris from various atolls. This initiative is part of the broader Catch-Up and Keep-Up Initiative, which has seen PMDP eliminate over 1.3 million pounds of debris since its inception in 2019. The completion of this season, marked on October 8, 2026, reflects the organization’s commitment to protecting the unique ecosystems of the Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary. Founded in 2019, PMDP launched its first mission in 2020, focusing on the urgent need to address marine debris threatening the region's wildlife and habitats.

This latest field season included three expeditions that spanned a total of 65 days at sea. The team visited various locations, including Lalo, Kamole, Kapou, Manawai, and Hōlanikū, conducting cleanup operations to remove debris that poses risks to marine life and coral reefs. The organization has made significant strides in its efforts, particularly during the five-year initiative launched in 2022, which aims to tackle the backlog of debris while also managing ongoing accumulation. During the 2026 expeditions, PMDP's dedicated crew successfully removed 47,000 pounds of debris in their final mission alone. This included a substantial amount of derelict fishing nets, which can severely damage coral habitats and entangle marine wildlife.

In a remarkable demonstration of their commitment to wildlife rescue, the team managed to free five green sea turtles that had become entangled in marine debris. The rescue of these turtles highlights the critical intersection of debris removal and wildlife conservation. The impact of PMDP's work extends beyond debris removal. The organization also engaged students and educators through innovative educational initiatives. On September 24, PMDP conducted a live virtual broadcast from a coral reef, connecting over 300 participants, primarily students from Hawaiʻi, with the field team. This interactive experience allowed students to witness the conservation efforts and the unique marine environment of Papahānaumokuākea, fostering a greater understanding of the importance of protecting these ecosystems.

With the successful completion of the Catch-Up and Keep-Up Initiative, PMDP is now looking towards future funding and partnership opportunities to continue its essential work in marine debris removal and wildlife rescue. The organization aims to maintain the momentum gained over the past five years while addressing the ongoing threat of marine debris in these ecologically significant areas. As PMDP continues its efforts, its work remains vital for the preservation of marine life and habitats in the Papahānaumokuākea region, showcasing the importance of collective action in environmental conservation.