How multiagency partnerships can successfully address large-scale pollution problems: a Hawaii case study

Area of Science:

• Marine biology
• Environmental science
• Oceanography

Background:

• Oceanic circulation patterns cause significant marine pollution accumulation in the Hawaiian Archipelago.
• Derelict fishing gear from North Pacific fisheries is a major component of this marine debris.
• Management of Hawaiian natural resources involves multiple government authorities, NGOs, and private industry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the evolution of a multiagency marine debris working group established in Hawaii.
• To highlight the challenges and rewards of interagency collaboration in marine debris mitigation.
• To advocate for the continued use of this partnership as an effective resource management tool.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of a multiagency marine debris working group in 1998.
• Collaborative efforts involving 16 federal, state, and local agencies, industry, and NGOs.
• Removal of derelict fishing gear from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.

Main Results:

• 195 tons of derelict fishing gear have been removed from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands to date.
• The multiagency working group has facilitated improved marine debris mitigation in Hawaii.
• The partnership has proven to be an effective resource management tool.

Conclusions:

• Multiagency collaboration is essential for addressing large-scale marine debris problems.
• The established working group model effectively manages marine debris in the Hawaiian Archipelago.
• Continued interagency cooperation is recommended for sustained environmental protection and resource management.