Plastic pollution in the Great Lakes

Researchers have found stunningly high amounts of tiny plastic pieces in all five Great Lakes. They’ve found microscopic plastic pieces in drinking water, fish, and beer – and even in human blood.

Visit our campaign page to see how you can be part of the solution. Learn more about Great Lakes plastic pollution below.

September 18, 2026

What 35 Years of Adopt-a-Beach Has Made Possible 

For more than three decades, Great Lakes volunteers have done more than remove litter. Their work has built a clearer picture of plastic pollution and helped strengthen efforts to address […]

Webinar

August 26, 2026

Webinar: The 2026 Election and the Great Lakes

In November, voters across the Great Lakes region will head to the polls. From local offices to statewide races and U.S. Congress, elected officials play a critical role in the […]

Webinar

July 17, 2026

Webinar: What role can businesses play in reducing plastic pollution?

More than 22 million pounds of plastic pollution enter the Great Lakes every year, and meaningful solutions will require action from businesses, manufacturers, and governments alike. Join us for a […]

Blog

May 29, 2026

Breaking news: Illinois victory against plastic pollution

Yesterday, the Illinois Senate passed an important bill to protect Lake Michigan and all Illinois waters from plastic pollution. The Plastic Pellets Pollution Control bill, HB 4418, previously passed by […]

Blog

April 22, 2026

At the Edge of the Water: Two Leaders, One Shoreline, One Shared Responsibility

For Patrick G. Rodriguez Sr., it started with a newspaper article. A new member of the Indiana Harbor–East Chicago Lions Club brought information about Adopt-a-Beach to a meeting. The club […]

Blog

April 17, 2026

Get Inspired by Great Lakes Volunteers

Thousands of people volunteer to protect the Great Lakes each year. Working with them truly inspires me.   Every day, they remind me that we’re part of something bigger – an amazing […]

Blog

March 20, 2026

What the State of the Great Lakes Report Tells Us About Our Future 

Last month, I had the opportunity to participate in discussions around the release of the State of the Great Lakes (SOGL) Report. Sitting alongside scientists, federal agency representatives, community members, and regional […]

Webinar

February 25, 2026

Webinar: Washington Update: Protecting the Great Lakes and Looking Ahead to 2026

When it comes to our Great Lakes priorities, how are our representatives in Washington doing and where should they focus their efforts in 2026? Thanks to Great Lakes advocates like […]

Blog

February 10, 2026

Top 5 Great Lakes Federal Policy Priorities for 2026

The federal government plays a critical role in protecting the Great Lakes. It’s responsible for funding projects, administering programs, and enforcing environmental safeguards. The Alliance for the Great Lakes advocates […]

Webinar

January 15, 2026

Webinar: Waves of Change: Taking Action to Protect the Great Lakes

Discover how you can play an active role in protecting and preserving the Great Lakes in the new year! We’ll dive into ways to get involved with the Alliance for […]