Purpose. This project aims to address the environmental problems caused by plastic use in coastal habitat restoration and provide a science-based approach to drive transformative change

Field and laboratory experiments will assess traditionally-used plastic versus emerging plastic-free materials for performance, longevity, and environmental impacts. Targeted engagement of stakeholders and underrepresented groups will facilitate widespread adoption of plastic-free alternatives and encourage marine debris prevention. Objectives include evaluating the performance of plastic-free alternatives, quantifying the consequences of using plastics, and fostering inclusive participation. The project aligns with national and international strategies against plastic pollution and seeks to prevent plastic introduction into the marine environment. Activities. We will evaluate plastic-free materialsincluding basalt fiber mesh, biopolymer mesh, and cement-infused jutealong with traditional plastic mesh in pilot experimental reefs in TX and FL. Field sampling over two years will assess ecological benefits, material longevity, resilience, and volunteer friendliness. In the lab, chemical composition and mass loss of materials will be analyzed along with experiments to determine nutrient and chemical leaching potential and production of micro- and nano-plastics. Engagement activities will focus on plastic pollution and coastal habitats and will target underserved schools, community centers, and organizations impacted by marine debris. Hands-on restoration events will involve restoring habitat using the best-performing plastic-free materials. Bilingual educational resources will be created and broadly distributedincluding videos, brochures, and a decision support tool (DST) to support research to application (R2A). Expected outcomes include hands-on education for local communities, quantifying ecological benefits of plastic-free materials and consequences compared to plastic, creating a stakeholder advisory board and CO-producing a decision support tool, and presenting findings at key meetings and conferences. Deliverables include educational materials in english and spanish, engagement for underrepresented groups, dissemination of the decision support tool to assist with plastic-free materials selection, distribution of best-performing plastic-free materials to restoration practitioners, and reports of project accomplishments. Intended beneficiaries. (1) coastal habitat restoration practitioners will access data and guidance on the efficacy of plastic-free materials for sustainable restoration practices. (2) individuals from local communities, including schools and underrepresented groups, will participate in hands-on education, enhancing knowledge and fostering stewardship. (3) stakeholders from community, government, academic, non-government and industry groups will contribute to a decision support tool (DST), ensuring its utility for materials selection. (4) educators and researchers will gain bilingual materials to support environmental education and guide restoration practices. (5) policymakers will benefit from presentations and reports that enhance decisions on marine debris prevention. Subrecipient activities. The university of central florida (UCF) brings experience in evaluating plastic-free restoration materials. The university of texas marine science institute (UTMSI) specializes in assessing plastic distribution and weathering in marine environments. The texas sea grant (TXSG) team excels in disseminating coastal management publications and networks. The gulf reach institute focuses on stem education and community health for underrepresented groups. Voices of the colonias provides education and services to marginalized communities in poverty-stricken areas, ensuring inclusive outreach.