Updates to the Series

Disgusted by pictures of trash-strewn coasts, the California Ocean Protection Council on Thursday called for an aggressive crackdown on plastic fast-food containers, a ban of those containing toxic chemicals and a program to reimburse police for vigorous enforcement of littering laws.

Runoff from land dwellers -- urban and agricultural -- harms coastal waters, but there are solutions.

Even slight changes in habits and lifestyle can help improve the health of the oceans

As ocean seafood populations plummet, catching is mostly unhindered -- only Alaska is willing to self-police. Big business is starting to lend a hand.