Marine Litter
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Marine Litter
Preventing Litter from Reaching Our Seas
Marine litter is a persistent threat to marine ecosystems, coastal communities and the people who depend on healthy seas. It comes from many sources, including land-based activities, rivers, fishing, aquaculture, tourism, recreation and shipping. KIMO works to prevent and reduce litter by combining advocacy, knowledge-sharing and practical action. Our work brings together municipalities, fishers, ports, researchers and other partners to promote effective solutions, influence policy and share best practice. From removing waste through Fishing for Litter to addressing ghost gear, riverine litter and microplastics, KIMO helps turn local experience into action at national, regional and international levels.
Key Issues
Ocean Litter
KIMO advocates for measures to prevent and reduce waste entering the marine environment, including beach litter, fishing-related waste and other ocean-bound debris.
Ghost Gear
Abandoned, lost or discarded fishing gear can continue to trap marine life, damage habitats and break down into persistent plastic pollution.
Riverine Litter
Rivers are an important pathway for litter reaching the sea. KIMO supports prevention, monitoring and practical solutions to reduce pollution at source.
Microplastics
Tiny plastic particles can enter marine environments from numerous sources. KIMO promotes measures that prevent microplastics entering the environment and shares practical solutions.
Related Projects
Marine Litter
Related News & Press Releases
Related Publications & Resources
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Find out moreKIMO International Annual Report 2025
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