The results provide insights into the temporal variability of sinking microplastics and thus a first approach to understanding their fate in the ocean.
According to the association Plastic Europe, 368 million tonnes of plastic were produced in 2019 worldwide, and around 3%, or 11.4 million tonnes, of this plastic ultimately ends up in the ocean.
The sources and impact of sea-based marine litter form the focus of a new report by the Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Environmental Protection (GESAMP*), an advisory body to the United Nations.
While many researchers suspect there will be a massive influx of COVID-related mismanaged plastic waste, a new study is the first to project the magnitude and fate of the waste in the oceans.
This joint research will use “K” LINE’s vessels, which navigate many seas around the world, to collect samples of plastic particles, and is expected to promote the study of marine plastic waste.
