The journal Nature Geoscience claims less land-based plastic found in the Oceans, contrary to previous estimates, researchers suggest that less plastic is entering the ocean from land than initially believed. The study estimates that approximately 500,000 metric tons of plastic make their way into the ocean annually, with half originating from land and the other half from the fishing industry, including nets, ropes, buoys, and equipment.
This figure contrasts with a widely publicized 2015 study, which proposed that eight million metric tons of plastic were entering the ocean yearly from rivers alone. While the new findings may seem encouraging, the overall situation remains complex. The study reveals that plastic levels in the ocean are still rising at a rate of approximately 4 percent per year, indicating a continuous increase. Even a modest yearly rise contributes significantly to a substantial accumulation over time, with the possibility of the amount of plastic on the sea surface doubling within two decades.
Mikael Kaandorp, the lead author of the study, emphasizes the ongoing environmental challenge, stating, “We’re accumulating more and more plastics in the environment.” The ramifications of plastic pollution extend beyond the environmental realm, affecting marine wildlife and humans alike. Animals often get entangled in discarded equipment, suffer injuries from ingesting plastic, and face starvation due to blocked digestive systems. Additionally, microplastics, small pieces that can traverse the food web, pose a threat to human health when consumed through seafood, potentially carrying toxic chemicals.
Despite the seemingly optimistic reduction in plastic from land sources, the study underscores the persistence of the problem. Plastic pollution remains challenging to address once it enters the ocean due to logistical and ecological hurdles. Dr. Kaandorp emphasizes the need to tackle the issue at its source, emphasizing that continued accumulation necessitates urgent measures. The study advocates for stronger policies, pointing to the insufficient pace of policy development compared to the escalating problem.
To address this issue globally, countries have recently initiated discussions on drafting a comprehensive treaty to combat plastic pollution. Marcus Eriksen, co-founder of the nonprofit organization 5 Gyres, believes that a United Nations treaty could be a game-changer. He suggests that such a treaty should regulate the types of plastic products manufactured, increase responsibilities for recycling among manufacturers, and have legally binding implications. Despite some positive aspects, the study highlights the ongoing urgency to mitigate plastic pollution and the critical need for effective international collaboration.
