On August 28, 2023, the Department of Commerce announced $28 million in funding to support large-scale marine debris removal projects and proven interception technologies in coastal regions across the U.S.

"Marine debris is a significant and increasing threat to coastal, ocean and Great Lakes economic activity, and the communities that rely on a healthy and productive marine environment," Raimondo said. "These new funding opportunities — following on additional investments in marine debris removal through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law — will go a long way toward addressing the harmful effects of marine debris head-on."

According to a press release issued on Aug. 28, 2023, the Department of Commerce and NOAA are making available up to $28 million for programs that combat marine debris in the coastal U.S., Great Lakes, territories, and Freely Associated States of the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Republic of Palau. The initiative aims to support large-scale marine debris removal projects and deploy proven interception technologies. According to the Department, marine debris poses a growing threat to coastal economies and ecosystems.

The funding includes two opportunities: marine debris removal, targeting large-scale debris removal projects, and marine debris interception technologies, focusing on deploying and maintaining debris interception technologies near known sources or pathways. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to reduce marine debris' impact on ecosystems, wildlife, and coastal communities. Projects will be selected through a competitive merit review process.

“Investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are critical to reduce the impacts of marine debris, remove legacy debris from the environment, and prevent future debris from accumulating in order to reduce stress on ecosystems, wildlife, and coastal communities," NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. said. "Successfully tackling the issues associated with marine debris requires coordination and collaboration with partners across the country, and we are excited to advance projects that support partnerships and solutions.”