Ocean Defenders Alliance

In the next 1-5 years, and beyond, ODA will increase our debris removal goals annually, including: days at sea, volume of debris removed, and number of presentations given. Our activities create immediate change for the ecosystems we service with long-lasting impact and every trap line removed gives mammals a safer environment to swim through.

So after an ODA debris-removal project, ocean wildlife thrives! Marine plants and animals are safer because their environment is free of dangers and healthier. The trap lines that entangles whales are gone. The lobster traps that imprison wildlife are gone. The nets that capture and kill all kinds of fish, seabirds, and marine mammals are out of harm's way. Debris that emits toxins in the water -- like plastics & batteries -- is removed. In many cases, the area remains free of debris indefinitely.

Lasting change requires public involvement and pressure on commercial/political interests. ODA visits schools, universities, dive clubs, and civic groups to help them understand that healthy oceans equal healthy humans and inspires them to help us make a real impact. This, along with beach, harbor, and plastic patrol cleanups make people real stewards of the oceans.