The Virginia Marine Debris Summit (VMDS) is co-hosted by Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program and Clean Virginia Waterways. This 3-day event will focus on solutions to measurably reduce plastic pollution from entering Virginia’s freshwater and tidal rivers, estuaries, wetlands, beaches, and ocean. Speakers will share dynamic programs that have made a difference and can be replicated throughout the state. 

The summit will include in-depth solution-based discussions on the four major goals of the 2021-2025 Virginia Marine Debris Reduction Plan (VMDRP): 

• Consumer Single-use Plastics

• Derelict Fishing Gear

• Microplastics & Microfibers

• Abandoned & Derelict Vessels

We will also discuss and share ideas for the updates to the 2026-2030 VMDRP. Join us for panel discussions, new ideas, updates to ongoing projects, networking, creating workgroups and even an opportunity for “Speed Dating With The Experts”. Be inspired by our amazing Keynote Speakers, Bonnie Monteleone of Plastic Ocean Project, Katie Register of Clean Virginia Waterways (retired) and Judith Enck of Beyond Plastics. Meals and snacks included in registration fee. 

Please consider supporting the Virginia Marine Debris Summit through a sponsorship! We are offering many levels of sponsorships from $250 to $10,000 and each level offers benefits such as exhibitor space, free registrations, acknowledgement on Summit materials and more. Sponsorships make it possible for us to include Keynote speakers, scholarships for students, after-hours networking events and more. 

Summit Agenda Coming Soon!

Tuesday March 18: 
Summit Registration, Presentations and Panel Discussions: 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm (afternoon snack included)
Reception: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (hors d'oeuvres and drink tickets included)

Wednesday, March 19:
Summit Registration, Presentations and Panel Discussions: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (breakfast, snacks and lunch included)
Norfolk Night Out: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm 

Thursday, March 20:
Summit Workgroups & Presentations: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm (breakfast and snacks included)
Lunch & MOCA Tour: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 

Marine debris has become one of the most widespread pollution problems in the world’s oceans and waterways, impacting wildlife, human health and safety, habitats, and economies. It is an enormous and growing problem, and it is important for Virginia to play its part in reducing debris from land-based and water-based sources. Join us for the 2025 Virginia Marine Debris Summit in Norfolk! 

Contact Terra or Christina for more information, Terra@CleanVirginiaWaterways.org, Christina@CleanVirginiaWaterways.org

If you would like to be added to our email list for summit updates, please fill out the form below.