Marine debris is a huge and growing problem affecting the ocean worldwide. It is a problem caused by people and will take every one of us to solve, but one Hawaiian teenager has shown that anyone can do their part to get involved. Thirteen year-old Gina McGuire has been recognized by NOAA’s Marine Debris Program for her efforts to raise awareness about the harmful effects of marine debris on Hawaii’s marine environment.

Gina, an 8th grade student at Kamehameha Schools Hawaii Middle School, participated in an art exhibit and auction benefiting the Big Island community. Gina’s ceramic sea turtle decorated with painted scenes of Hawaii’s marine life, including the endangered Hawaiian monk sea and humpback whale, was auctioned off for $400. The money raised from the auction went to support local marine debris and conservation efforts.

“I wanted to capture the beauty of Hawaii’s environmental through my art and share it with others,” said Gina. “I have seen marine debris on our beaches here as well as photos of trash in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands, and I want to do what I can to help and give back to my community”

Along with the money raised from her sea turtle, Gina raised an additional $475 through the “Gina McGuire Hero Fund,” set up for her by the Hanu World project. The entire sum was donated to the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation’s Marine Debris Campaign.

“Gina is a terrific role model for all young people interested in protecting America’s underwater treasures,” said NMSF President and CEO, Lori Arguelles. “The funds she raised will be used to make people more aware of the marine debris problem and how to prevent it.”

Marine debris can come from coastal and most inland areas. It is carried by runoff or through storm drain systems, travels through rivers and canals and finally makes its way to the ocean. No matter how close or far we are from the ocean, everyone can make a difference! Participating in local beach or stream clean-ups, or simply practicing the three R’s, “reduce, reuse, and recycle,” will help limit the amount of man-made debris in our ocean that not only presents hazards to marine ecosystems and wildlife, but also carries health risks for humans.

To make a donation to the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation’s Marine Debris Campaign click here. To learn more about marine debris and what you can do to help, visit www.MarineDebris.noaa.gov.