GLOUCESTER, Va. (AP) - Nearly 100 scientists and policy leaders are gathering in Gloucester to discuss littered seas and waterways.
The ever-growing problem is widely associated with vast floating islands of plastic and other human castoffs found in the world's oceans. Officials say the problem extends to domestic waters, as well, and it poses a threat to human health and wildlife.
The issue will be the focus of the Virginia Marine Debris Summit on Monday. Participants will meet at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science.
Katie Register of Clean Virginia Waterways says marine debris is one of the most preventable forms of pollution. The summit will address some of those strategies to reduce pollution in waterways.