By Karisa Arterbury | Director of Operations + Development
OBP Plastic Disaster Relief Program Report
4th Quarter 2024 and Annual Highlights
Dear Ocean Blue Project Supporters,
The Ocean Blue Project is delighted to share the remarkable accomplishments of our Plastic Disaster Relief Program in 2024 and our ambitious plans for 2025. As stewards of the ocean, we remain committed to combating plastic pollution and safeguarding the health of our coastlines and waterways for future generations.
Progress in the Chesapeake Bay Area
The Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States, is vital to ocean health, serving as both a marine habitat and a natural filtration system for water entering the Atlantic Ocean. Since engaging in the region, our team has made tremendous strides tackling plastic debris and pollutants that threaten this critical watershed.
Throughout 2024, the Plastic Disaster Relief Program yielded significant results, including the removal of 792,700 pounds of debris from the Chesapeake Bay area. This region accounted for an important share of the total pounds removed in 2024, contributing substantially to our long-term goals of plastic and debris mitigation.
While our Create a Cleanup program continues to mobilize volunteers across the U.S., much of the Chesapeake Bay area's success came through the relentless efforts of our Ocean Blue team. These efforts require specialized resources, including equipment and dedicated personnel to manage on-ground and in-water cleanup operations.
Milestone Achievement
In 2023, Ocean Blue Project surpassed our goal of removing 1 million pounds of plastic and debris. Inspired by this success, our 2026 target is set at 5 million pounds of debris removal. We are proud to announce that as of December 2024, we have removed a remarkable 2,150,144 pounds of plastic and debris, achieving over 43% of this ambitious goal. This progress would not have been possible without the unwavering support of volunteers, partners, and our skilled teams.
Plans for 2025: East Coast Headquarters
So far, Ocean Blue has raised $100 to aid in the Kamilo Beach, known to locals as "Plastic Beach," and we will continue to request support to address this ongoing crisis.
Challenges and Opportunities
To continue expanding our reach in 2025 and beyond, key challenges must be addressed, including:
- Securing funding for a vessel to enhance the efficiency of water-based cleanups.
- Developing the Lottsburg facility, ensuring it meets the needs of the program.
- Obtaining multi-year grants to create stable job opportunities for program coordinators and expand community engagement.
Call to Action
The efforts of Ocean Blue Project depend on the support of dedicated individuals and partners. As we move into 2025, we invite you to join us in making a difference. Whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating, your support will be instrumental in creating a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable world ocean.
Together, we can reach new milestones and ensure a brighter future for our waterways. Thank you for being an essential part of the Ocean Blue Project mission.
With deep gratitude and appreciation,
The Ocean Blue Project Team
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