Debris Free Oceans

 Debris Free Oceans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Miami-Dade communities to go zero-waste. Founded in 2014, we focus on reducing single-use plastics and fostering a circular economy through education, community events, and sustainability consulting.

Over the past decade, Debris Free Oceans has:

Miami-Dade County generates 11 pounds of waste per person per day, which is double the national average. But here's the hopeful part: the solutions to reduce this waste already exist in our community. From refill stores and reusable to-go programs to composting services and food rescue organizations, Miami is full of people building a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Zero Waste Miami was created to bring these efforts together, uniting nonprofits, local businesses, schools, and government partners to successfully implement and scale zero-waste solutions across Miami-Dade County.

This Give Miami Day, your support will strengthen our Zero Waste Miami Program. Your gift helps us carry forward community-led zero-waste projects developed through our workshops and expand the tools and resources available to residents across the County.

Creating a zero-waste future also means empowering our next generation of leaders. The Chef Andrew Scholar Program, honors the legacy of Chef Andrew Michael Alessi by providing youth with hands-on experience leading cleanups, giving educational talks, and advocating for policy change. Your donation helps ensure that future scholars have the mentorship, skills, and opportunities they need to create meaningful change in our community.

And this year, your generosity goes even further! Thanks to Roberta & Russ Alessi, parents of Chef Andrew Michael Alessi,  every dollar you donate will be matched up to $10,000. Your contribution strengthens zero-waste efforts across Miami-Dade County and supports our future ocean leaders.