NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Today is World Environment Day, an observance that's been drawing attention to many issues affecting our ecosystems since 1973. Each year, a theme is presented with 2025 focusing on solutions for global plastic pollution.

In Virginia, plastic debris is a major concern and clogging many bodies of water. According to Clean Virginia Waterways, 80% of what's detected on the beaches and bodies of water is plastic. 80% of the plastic waste stems from land-based sources.

Data from the International Coastal Clean-up shows that cigarette butts are the most commonly found item in waterways. Balloons and construction materials are also infiltrating seashores.

"Even in a neighborhood that might be miles inland if the trash gets into the storm drain, all storm drains lead to wa

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