Working with Unlikely Stakeholders to Prevent Marine Debris

Despite gaps in knowledge about occurrence, sources, transport, and the spectrum of impacts of plastic in the environment, we know enough to know that the plastic pollution problem is serious and that we must seize opportunities to address it. Net Your Problem LLC is a solutions-oriented company, providing responsible disposal services (i.e., recycling) for fishing gear in Alaska and programs in development for all US coasts. Since 2017, it has recycled 881,000 pounds of fishing gear, made possible by working with what it calls “unlikely partners.” Past partners have included not only a variety of stakeholders who have a financial interest in improving waste management in coastal communities—from the fishing industry to Alaska Native tribes and community groups to local, regional, and federal governments, even intergovernmental institutions. Partners also include construction companies, breweries, and a fishing apparel company. If you are interested in collaborating with Net Your Problem to increase the amount of debris diverted from landfills and incinerators and prevent from entering the environment, learn more about the organization’s work by attending this event.