Florida’s coastlines are both tourism hubs and fragile ecosystems threatened by plastic pollution.

Removing ocean plastic brings ecological and social benefits, from coral reefs to local economies.

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The scale of the problem

A 2021 NOAA report found that Florida’s beaches account for a significant share of US marine debris, including microplastics that enter fish and wildlife food chains. Plastic harms marine life directly through ingestion, entanglement, and chemical absorption (e.g., BPA).

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Protection for endangered species

Marine turtles such as loggerheads, hawksbills, and leatherbacks often ingest plastic debris.

Studies show the prevalence of marine debris in critical nesting areas like Boca Raton exceeds 30% of the beach surface. Wildlife rescue centers report increases in turtle rehabilitation due to plastic ingestion.

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Economic and public health benefits

Beach litter discourages tourism, costing coastal economies time and money. One cleanup day in Florida can remove several tons of debris—allowing beaches to reopen and reducing municipal cleanup costs.

Engagement through Ecodrive empowers customer contribution, increasing awareness and action.

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Community engagement through verified cleanups

By supporting partners like 4ocean, Ecodrive verifies removals—counting and weighing plastic, tagging GPS locations, and providing media documentation.

When customers purchase products tied to these cleanups, they fund efforts that improve water quality, protect reef communities, and support local beach stewardship.

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🌊 With tangible data and localized storytelling, brands can show customers exactly how their purchase helps clean Florida’s coastline—and why it matters for marine life and communities.

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