Hidden in Plain Sight: Pyroplastics on Okinawa’s Coral Reef Beaches
When we think of marine plastic pollution, we usually picture bottles, fishing nets, or plastic fragments washed ashore by the waves. But…
We’re a research team dedicated to exposing and addressing marine litter in coral reef ecosystems.
Over the past three years, my research into marine litter pollution has shown that the presence and impact of marine debris on coral reefs are significantly under-reported.
To address this gap, I launched reeflitter.com – a citizen science platform dedicated to documenting marine litter (especially plastic) on coral reefs worldwide.
If you’ve encountered marine litter during recreational or scientific dives or captured images through remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), your observations can make a real difference, and I invite you to share them here.
Ilechukwu Ifenna
Record helpful information — like location, depth, date, and any visible impact on marine life or corals.
Take clear photos of marine litter on or near coral reefs during your dive.
Upload your photo and details using our quick and easy form.
Explore the latest findings, diver stories, research highlights, and reef conservation news from around the world.
When we think of marine plastic pollution, we usually picture bottles, fishing nets, or plastic fragments washed ashore by the waves. But…
In June 2025, we launched reeflitter.com to document marine litter in and around the coral reefs of Okinawa. Shortly after, we expanded…
Thursday, 5th June was marked globally as World Environment Day and the theme was “Beat Plastic Pollution”. The growing demand and use…
By documenting and sharing images of marine litter on coral reefs to expose its environmental impact.
By Contributing to an image database that helps scientists map and address reef pollution.
By sharing photos to raise awareness that inspires action to protect coral reef ecosystems.