Marine debris and the solid waste disposal crisis

Persistent wastes from ocean and land sources damage wildlife, impede maritime commerce and foul our beaches. Solutions to the marine debris problem include eliminating both land and sea sources. The MAFWOL model is widely supported and may well control ship-source persistent debris. Land source marine debris control, however, will necessitate innovative solutions to the much broader solid waste disposal crisis in the U.S. In order to motivate, support, and lead this effort, the "ocean ethos" in the U.S. society must be invoked. The marine debris issue may have the broad appeal necessary to bring public sentiment to bear directly on the solid waste disposal problem. The early development of a national solid waste agenda and the identification of a single responsible Federal entity will be key early milestones in the ultimate solution of the marine debris problem.