The results are in… and single-use plastic is once again crowned the top polluter in our national parks!
Our 2024 Plastic-Free Parks report was published today, revealing results from an analysis of 12,500 items from 58 sites around the country. According to data submitted by volunteers (shoutout to everyone who participated this year!), PLASTIC is the most prevalent material polluting national parks for the third year in a row, making up nearly 80% of waste recorded in 2024.
The report is out, but our work continues! Our team will use this report to advocate for solutions that protect our parks, like passing the Reducing Waste in National Parks Act and working with park managers to implement changes. Our motto is “Science to Solutions”, and community science-led data is an integral part of driving forward real solutions.
Please consider supporting Plastic-Free Parks so we can continue this project in 2025! We are fundraising to:
Maintain and improve the TrashBlitz app to have a more streamlined interface for users
Partner with graphic designers and creators to develop fresh art and content to promote the campaign
Host more in-person TrashBlitz events for YOU to join us!
When you take your next deep, cleansing breath outside, you can breathe easy knowing that 5 Gyres is fighting for a world free of plastic pollution in our most sacred spaces.
Thank you for believing in clear skies, valleys, rivers, and seas!
