Record Numbers Released in 2017 Beach Sweeps Report

COA released the 2017 Beach Sweeps Report at Sandy Hook on April 12 at a press conference. The report unveils the results of the data collected which also creates a legacy of information that is used to fight for better anti-litter programs and educate people about the harm caused by marine debris to the economy and wildlife.  Over the past 32 years, a total of 6,288,576 items were
collected by 123,242 volunteers.

The report highlights include twelve most commonly collected items (“The Dirty Dozen”), the most outrageous finds (“The Roster of the Ridiculous”) and includes the breakdown of the total 373,686 pieces of marine debris collected by 7,416 energetic volunteers last year.  The report also contains information about some surprising increases in balloons, straws, plastic pieces and caps and lids.  A record 84.45% of all debris was plastic and the Dirty Dozen—items make up 74% of all plastic.  This data can be used to help in campaigns to reduce the use of plastics.  Visit COA’s website to see the report.