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The Trash Free Waters (TFW) Program is a new initiative launched by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2020. The primary goal of the TFW program is to reduce and prevent the pollution of water bodies by trash and marine debris. The program is a critical component of the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act (SOS 2.0) of 2020, which was enacted to address the issue of marine debris in the United States.
Goals of the Trash Free Waters Program The TFW program aims to achieve the following goals:
Reduction of marine debris: The program aims to reduce the amount of trash and debris that enter the water bodies, including oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams. The goal is to reduce marine debris by 50% by 2025.
Prevention of marine debris: The TFW program aims to prevent marine debris from entering water bodies in the first place. This includes the implementation of best management practices, public education and outreach, and regulatory measures.
Restoration of impacted areas: The program aims to restore the areas that have already been impacted by marine debris and trash. This includes the removal of existing debris, the cleanup of contaminated water bodies, and the implementation of measures to prevent further contamination.
Support for innovation and research: The TFW program supports innovation and research aimed at finding new and innovative solutions to the problem of marine debris.
Role in Implementing the Provisions of the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act The TFW program plays a critical role in implementing the provisions of the SOS 2.0 Act of 2020. The Act aims to address the issue of marine debris in the United States and provides the EPA with the authority to implement measures to reduce and prevent marine debris.
The TFW program provides support for the implementation of the SOS 2.0 Act by providing funding for projects aimed at reducing and preventing marine debris, supporting research and innovation, and providing technical assistance to communities and stakeholders. The program also provides a framework for collaboration between the EPA and other federal, state, and local agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations and the private sector.
Conclusion The Trash Free Waters Program is a critical initiative launched by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in 2020. The primary goal of the program is to reduce and prevent marine debris and trash from entering water bodies. The TFW program plays a critical role in implementing the provisions of the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act of 2020 and provides support for the reduction and prevention of marine debris.