U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA) is taking action to protect the environment and eliminate plastic waste in the ocean. The Senator cosponsored the bipartisan Save Our Seas 2.0 Act to address the plastic debris crisis that threatens coastal economies and harms marine life.

“Many of Georgia’s top industries rely directly on the health of the ocean. From tourism and recreation, to trade through ports and harbors, our coastline is an engine for economic growth,” said Senator Perdue. “The growing amount of plastic in the world’s oceans is extremely concerning. Our bipartisan bill will accelerate the removal of plastic waste from the ocean and help prevent future marine debris. This is a global problem, and the world needs the United States to lead a solution.”

Roughly eight million metric tons of mismanaged plastic waste from land enters the ocean each year. Ninety percent of river-borne plastic enters the ocean from ten rivers, eight of which are in Asia. The plastic breaks down into tiny pieces that can enter the marine food chain, harm fish and wildlife, and wash ashore on even the most remote stretches of coastline.

The Save Our Seas 2.0 Act:

Helps reduce the creation of plastic waste

Finds new uses for plastic waste that already exists

Supports innovative technologies to address marine debris

Enhances international engagement and outreach on plastic waste mitigation

This legislation builds upon the Save Our Seas Act, which was signed into law by President Trump in October 2018.

The Save Our Seas 2.0 Act is led by U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). In addition to Perdue, the bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Susan Collins (R-ME), Chris Coons (D-DE), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Rob Portman (R-OH ), and Brian Schatz (D-HI).