The Ocean's Plastic Problem: How Bad Is It?

Plastic waste in the ocean is a pressing global issue that poses a threat to marine life, human health, and the environment. While the exact amount of plastic in the ocean is challenging to determine, it is estimated that there are 15 to 51 trillion pieces of plastic polluting the oceans, with plastic accounting for 80% of all marine waste. The accumulation of plastic in the ocean is primarily due to improper waste management and the widespread use of single-use plastics, with plastic particles doubling every six years. The impact of plastic pollution extends beyond the ocean, as microplastics have been detected in drinking water, food sources, and the air we breathe. As a result, addressing plastic waste in the ocean requires a multifaceted approach, including improved waste management, reduced plastic consumption, and support for legislation targeting plastic production and disposal.

Sources of ocean plastic pollution

Marine plastic pollution is a pressing environmental issue that poses significant risks to marine life and human health. The sources of ocean plastic pollution are diverse and far-reaching, with a significant amount originating from land-based activities.

One major source of ocean plastic pollution is littering and improper waste disposal. Single-use plastic items such as bottles, caps, straws, cups, food wrappers, and plastic bags are commonly littered or not disposed of properly, eventually making their way into waterways and the ocean. These items contribute to both macro-plastic and microplastic pollution, with macro-plastics making up 88% of global plastic leakage in 2019.

Industrial activities and manufacturing processes also play a significant role in ocean plastic pollution. Improper manufacturing can lead to microplastics entering the environment, and industrial waste, including plastic, is often improperly managed, leading to plastic leakage into oceans. Additionally, manufacturing plants in certain areas release toxic waste, such as mercury, directly into the ocean.

The agriculture and construction sectors are notable contributors to ocean plastic pollution. The agriculture sector produces a significant amount of macroplastics through irrigation pipes, fertilizing pellets, and containers, which often are not properly disposed of and end up in the ocean. Similarly, the construction sector generates a large volume of plastic waste, especially from large infrastructure projects.

Fishing-related debris, including abandoned fishing nets and floats/buoys, is another significant source of ocean plastic pollution. These items account for a substantial weight percentage of marine plastic litter and pose a severe threat to marine life through entanglement and ingestion.

Lastly, rivers are a major pathway for plastic waste to enter the oceans. It is estimated that 1000 rivers are responsible for nearly 80% of global annual riverine plastic emissions, with small urban rivers being among the most polluting. These rivers transport plastic waste from land into the oceans, contributing significantly to the plastic accumulation in the oceans.

The impact of ocean plastic pollution

Plastic accumulating in our oceans and on our beaches has become a global crisis. Billions of pounds of plastic can be found in swirling convergences that make up about 40% of the world's ocean surfaces. Plastic waste makes up 80% of all marine pollution and around 8 to 10 million metric tons of plastic end up in the ocean each year. Studies estimate there are now 15–51 trillion pieces of plastic in the world's oceans — from the equator to the poles, from Arctic ice sheets to the sea floor. Not one square mile of surface ocean anywhere on earth is free of plastic pollution.

The impact of plastic pollution on marine life is devastating. Marine animals get entangled in plastic debris, often resulting in death. Additionally, they mistake plastic debris for food, leading to intestinal injuries and death. Research indicates that half of the sea turtles worldwide have ingested plastic, and plastic ingestion reduces the storage volume of the stomach, causing starvation. It is estimated that 60% of all seabird species have eaten plastic, and this number is predicted to increase to 99% by 2050. Endangered wildlife, such as Hawaiian monk seals and Pacific loggerhead sea turtles, are among the nearly 700 species that eat and get caught in plastic litter.

Microplastics, small plastics less than 5mm in size, are another significant concern. They can come from larger plastics breaking down or be produced as small plastics like microbeads found in personal care products. These microplastics can absorb harmful pollutants like pesticides and then release them into the ocean. They have become part of the food chain, found in drinking water, salt, beer, and even the soil where we grow our vegetables. The toxic contaminants that accumulate on plastic's surface are transferred to humans through seafood consumption, posing health risks.

The problem of ocean plastic pollution is not just limited to the ocean itself but also extends to the coastlines and inland areas. Nonpoint source pollution, resulting from runoff, is a significant contributor to ocean plastic pollution. This type of pollution comes from sources such as septic tanks, vehicles, farms, and livestock ranches. With the majority of pollutants entering the ocean coming from human activities, it is essential to address the root causes and implement measures to prevent plastic waste from reaching the ocean.

How to reduce plastic waste

Plastic waste is a global crisis. Billions of pounds of plastic can be found in the oceans, with plastic debris accounting for 80% of all marine pollution. It is estimated that by 2050, plastic will outweigh all the fish in the sea.

Reduce

The most effective way to reduce waste is to not create it. Avoid single-use plastics and replace them with reusable alternatives. For example, use cloth napkins, reusable dishes, and silverware instead of disposable options. When shopping, bring your own bags and try to buy items with minimal packaging. If you bring a packed lunch, use reusable containers. Buy drinks in reusable bottles or thermoses instead of disposable bottles or cartons.

Reuse

Before throwing away plastic items, consider if they can be reused. For example, donate unwanted plastic items that are still in good shape, or repurpose items such as containers and water bottles.

Recycle

When possible, purchase products made from recycled plastic materials. Look into how to recycle plastic bags, wrap, and film in your area. Ask your local grocery and department stores about plastic recycling. Organize a recycling drive in your neighborhood or school and take the collected materials to a local recycling center or charity.

Reduce Microplastics

Microplastics are small plastics that are less than 5mm in size. They can come from larger plastics breaking down or can be produced as small plastics such as microbeads, which are found in products like toothpaste and face wash. Synthetic clothing made from materials like nylon, acrylic, and polyester can also release microplastics into the environment when washed. To reduce microplastics, avoid products containing microplastics, and consider buying natural fiber clothing instead.

Support Legislation and Organizations

Support and urge elected officials to introduce and enforce legislation that discourages plastic use and encourages recycling. Additionally, support organizations working to reduce plastic waste and keep plastics out of the ocean, such as NOAA's Marine Debris Program (MDP).

How plastic waste enters the ocean

Plastic waste enters the ocean in a variety of ways, from both land and sea-based sources. It is estimated that 8 million metric tons of plastic entered the ocean in 2010, with billions of pounds of plastic ending up in the oceans every year. This plastic pollution has become a global crisis, with plastic expected to outweigh all the fish in the sea by 2050.

One of the major ways plastic enters the ocean is through rivers. It is estimated that 1000 rivers, making up 1% of all rivers worldwide, contribute to 80% of plastic emitted from rivers into the oceans. These rivers carry plastic waste directly into the ocean or Great Lakes, with the plastic often originating from land-based sources such as littering, improper waste disposal, and runoff from consumer goods manufacturing.

Another significant source of plastic waste in the ocean is abandoned or lost fishing gear and nets. These items can become entangled with marine life, causing harm and death. Microplastics, which are small pieces of plastic less than 5mm in size, can also enter the ocean from land-based sources. They can come from larger plastics breaking down or be produced as small plastics such as microbeads found in personal care products. These microplastics can absorb harmful pollutants and release them into the ocean.

In addition to rivers and fishing gear, littering and improper waste disposal are also significant contributors to plastic waste in the ocean. This includes intentional littering and the improper disposal of single-use plastic items such as food wrappers, beverage bottles, straws, and take-out containers. The durability of plastic means that once it enters the ocean, it persists for long periods, breaking down into microplastics without fully degrading.

While high-income countries have effective waste management systems that keep plastic out of the natural environment, lower- and middle-income countries often lack adequate waste management infrastructure, contributing to plastic emissions. The probability that mismanaged plastic waste enters the ocean varies depending on factors such as river systems, proximity to coastlines, terrain, and precipitation patterns.

The future of our oceans

The impact of plastic pollution on marine life is devastating. Marine animals, from small finches to blue whales, face gruesome deaths from ingesting plastic or becoming entangled in it. Endangered species such as Hawaiian monk seals and Pacific loggerhead sea turtles are among the nearly 700 species affected by plastic litter. Additionally, microplastics have made their way into the food chain, being found in drinking water, salt, beer, and even the soil where we grow our vegetables. These microplastics can absorb harmful pollutants and later release them into the ocean, affecting both marine life and human health.

To address this crisis, individuals, organizations, and governments must take decisive action. Individuals can reduce their plastic consumption, reuse and recycle plastic items, and properly dispose of waste. Joining local clean-up efforts and supporting organizations dedicated to ocean conservation can also make a significant impact. However, individual efforts alone are not enough. Governments and industries must implement stricter regulations and reduce the production and use of single-use plastics. Improving waste management systems, especially in low-to-middle-income countries, is crucial to preventing plastic from entering rivers and oceans.

Frequently asked questions