Plastic waste travels from your doorstep to the most remote places. In the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, currents concentrate vast amounts of marine debris along the shores of what should be a wildlife paradise.

Within the protected waters of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, plastic debris and derelict fishing nets threaten endangered Hawaiian Monk Seals (Neomonachus schauinslandi), seabirds, sea turtles and fragile coral reef systems. These islands have become the frontline in the fight against ocean plastics.

In this episode of “Our Wild Lives,” reporter Kaylyn Zipp and Kevin O’Brien from Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project reveal the realities of marine debris cleanup in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. From intense breath-holding training sessions to the successes and ongoing challenges of removing tons of plastic from sensitive habitats, the conversation highlights both the scale of the problem and the lifelong dedication of those working to solve it.

Learn more

Read the full story, “Plastic Prisoners”: https://wildlife.org/plastic-prisoners-2/

Papahānaumokuākea Marine Debris Project (PMDP): https://www.pmdphawaii.org/

“Our Wild Lives” is The Wildlife Society’s biweekly podcast, sharing compelling stories from wildlife professionals doing critical work around the world bringing you thought-provoking conversations with leading experts and emerging voices.

Cover photo: Thousands of pounds of marine debris collect on the atolls and throughout Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument every year. Photo by Holly Richards / U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Share your thoughts on the Our Wild Lives Podcast by sending us a text here!

Become a member of The Wildlife Society: https://wildlife.org/membership/

Support Wildlife, Invest in Wildlife Professionals: https://wildlife.org/donate/

Connect with us on

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewildlifesociety/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewildlifesociety

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wildlife-society/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@The_Wildlife_Society