BY US REP. COLLEEN HANABUSA – Two years ago, the devastation that came in the wake of the Japan earthquake and tsunami reminded us of the power of nature and the fragility of our environment. I would like to congratulate the government and people of Japan for the steady progress they have made in recovering from those difficult days. Their spirit, strength, and dedication are an inspiration to us all.
However, today we face the continuing effects of those events as marine debris arrives at our shores.
Unlike the sudden events in Japan, we have known for some time the threat that marine debris carries with it. Through vigilance, monitoring, and continued planning, we can reduce the damage to our environment.
I will continue to advocate for funding of NOAA’s marine debris program as I did in 2012, helping to ensure that our state and our oceans and shorelines receive the attention and protection they require.