Sailing Away: The approximately 1.5 million tons of marine debris from the 2011 Japanese tsunami began washing up on U.S. shores this spring. Although the wreckage from far away struck the whimsy of many, it was a reality check for states and municipalities charged with removing it from public beaches.
Although the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA is the federal agency responsible for marine debris removal) offered $250,000 in debris removal grants, it was impossible to estimate actual U.S. clean up costs because the type of debris to be removed, the amount washing ashore at a given time, and the type of shoreline to be cleaned all affect costs. That said, the agency tentatively put a $4,300 per ton price tag on cleanup.
Waiting at Anchor: Although not obligated to contribute to cleanup, Japan announced November 30 that it has set aside $5 million to assist with debris in the United States. The funds will be used for “removal of debris, disposal fees, cleanup supplies, detection and monitoring,” according to a NOAA statement.
“We are extremely grateful to Japan for its generous support to the American people, NOAA Administrator Jane Lubchenco stated. “The tragedy set in motion by the earthquake and tsunami continues to be tangible, but it brought our nations together. This gift is a powerful reminder of the goodwill, friendship and spirit of mutual support between our people.”
Alaska, Hawaii, Washington, Oregon and California, as well as portions of the Canadian coastline, were all affected by tsunami debris. Another $1 million in cleanup funds has been promised to Canada, according to the Japan Daily Press.
Murky Waters Ahead: The Japanese funds will be distributed by NOAA based on need, according to the statement. In the meantime, winter is expected to see even more debris come ashore on the West Coast, and NOAA projects tsunami debris could continue arriving for the next year.
Those interested in following the debris trail can keep up with the trash at the Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment website.