| Session Details | |
| Section | OS - Ocean Sciences |
| Session Title | Marine Debris – from Modelling to Management to Microplastics |
| Main Convener | Dr. Serena Lee (Griffith University, Australia) |
| Co-convener(s) | Mr. Mark Manuel (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, United States) Prof. Charles Lemckert (University of Canberra, Australia) |
| Session Description | The term marine debris refers to any persistent, solid, man-made material intentionally or unintentionally disposed of in marine or freshwater environments. Marine Debris represents a complex challenge, threatening marine, coastal and freshwater environments across the globe. This session invites presentations covering the full spectrum of projects, including: • Modelling and/or monitoring, • Spatial and temporal distribution of marine debris in open oceans, coastal waterways, coastlines, lakes and rivers. • Degradation and/or fate of marine debris, including biological uptake of microplastics, • Novel methods for monitoring marine debris • Success and limitations of strategies to reduce marine debris. • The economic burden of marine debris • Implications for human health It is fitting that this session be held at AOGS Hawaii. Due to the archipelago’s central location in the North Pacific Gyre, a number of locations, including the main Hawaiian Islands and the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument are prone to accumulating marine debris. In 2006, the U.S. Government signed the Marine Debris Research, Prevention, and Reduction Act to assist manage this emerging threat. Consequently, monitoring and modelling studies, and marine debris removal programs in Hawaii represent some of the longest running, and most comprehensive in the world. During the past two decades the majority of marine debris studies came from U.S. and European institutions, however in the past five years a large number of studies have emerged from the Asian region. Given the global prevalence of marine debris, there is a need for rapid cross-institutional and international collaboration. By bringing together researchers and managers from different institutions, agencies, countries, and fields, the session will facilitate the transfer of ideas, and foster discussions regarding data requirements and knowledge gaps. In addition, the session will enable researchers and managers to discuss how research may directly improve marine debris management strategies. |