Helena Joyce
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues today, with plastic waste harming wildlife and possibly human health. While plastic has been around for over a century, the problem of plastic pollution began to be recognised in the 1960s and '70s, with scientists from the National Academy of Sciences reporting in the '60s that more than 100 million tonnes of waste had been dumped in the ocean. During this period, it also became clear that plastic, designed to be indestructible, does not break down but instead breaks up into smaller pieces known as microplastics. This realisation, along with the discovery that plastic was causing harm to seabirds and seals, marked the beginning of efforts to understand and address plastic pollution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of first scientific findings of marine plastic debris | 1972 |
| Date of first long-term data set on plastic debris | 1986 |
| Date of discovery of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch | 1996 |
| Date of coining of the term "microplastic" | 2004 |
What You'll Learn
Plastic pollution in the ocean
Plastic pollution has devastating effects on marine life and ecosystems. It causes harm to animals through ingestion or entanglement, and has been found in the stomachs of dead seabirds, whales, seals, and other marine mammals. Nearly 2,100 species, including endangered ones, are known to be affected by plastics, and nearly every species of seabird eats plastic. It is estimated that by 2050, plastic will outweigh all the fish in the sea.
Microplastics, tiny particles of plastic that do not fully degrade, are another significant concern. They are spread throughout the water column and have been found in drinking water, food, and the air we breathe. These microplastics can be ingested by marine animals, entering the food chain and leading to harmful consequences for the health of our planet and all its inhabitants.
Addressing ocean plastic pollution requires global cooperation and systemic change. Individuals can play a role by reducing plastic use, supporting relevant legislation, and participating in clean-up efforts. However, large-scale action by governments and industries is necessary to constrict the production, sale, and use of plastic. Improved waste management systems, better product design, and a reduction in the manufacturing of unnecessary single-use plastics are also crucial steps towards preventing plastic pollution in our oceans.
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Plastic pollution on land
The impact of microplastics in soils, sediments, and freshwater is particularly concerning. Researchers estimate that terrestrial microplastic pollution is four to 23 times higher than marine pollution, and one-third of all plastic waste ends up in these environments. These microplastics, measuring less than five millimetres, break down even further into nanoparticles (less than 0.1 micrometres) and enter our food chain. They can be found in tap water and have been linked to various health issues, including liver and cell damage and disruptions to reproductive systems.
The sources of microplastics are diverse. Sewage sludge, often used as fertiliser, is a significant contributor, with 80-90% of plastic particles from sources like garment fibres persisting in the sludge. Our clothing is another major source, with minuscule fibres of synthetic materials shed during washing making their way into wastewater or the environment. Studies have estimated that more than 700,000 plastic microfibres can be released into the environment during a single cycle of a washing machine.
The consequences of plastic pollution on land extend beyond direct ingestion. Drainage systems become clogged with plastic bags and films, leading to flooding. Wind-transported microplastics have been detected in various parts of the world, including mountain snow, Arctic beaches, and even indoor environments.
The long-term effects of microplastics on terrestrial ecosystems are still being studied, but the presence of plastic in the environment is undeniable. As awareness grows, solutions such as biodegradable plastics and a "zero-waste" philosophy are gaining traction. However, the most effective approach may be to focus on preventing improper disposal and reducing the use of certain plastic items.
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Plastic pollution and human health
Plastic pollution poses a serious threat to human health at every stage of its lifecycle, from the extraction of fossil fuels to disposal. The average person is exposed to a wide range of toxic chemicals and microplastics through inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact.
Plastics are made from long chains of atoms, often using carbon atoms provided by petroleum and other fossil fuels. Synthetic polymers are lightweight, strong, and flexible, making them exceptionally useful. However, they are also largely non-biodegradable, which means they persist in the environment and contribute to pollution.
Microplastics, tiny particles of plastic less than 5mm in size, have been found in the air, soil, and water. Humans constantly inhale and ingest microplastics through contaminated seafood, tap water, bottled water, and even commonly consumed beverages like beer and salt. A recent study estimates that an average adult consumes approximately 2000 microplastics per year through salt alone.
The toxic chemical additives used in plastic production can leach out and enter our bodies, leading to serious health issues. These chemicals have been linked to endocrine disruption, weight gain, insulin resistance, decreased reproductive health, and cancer. Studies have also shown that microplastics can damage cells in the human body, causing lung disease and birth defects.
Vulnerable groups, including children, women, and marginalized communities, are particularly at risk from the health impacts of plastic pollution. Exposure to plastics during the early stages of human development can increase the risk of birth complications, lung growth issues, and childhood cancer.
The health effects of plastic pollution are not yet fully understood, and further research is needed to assess the impact of microplastics on human health accurately. However, there is an overwhelming consensus that plastics do not belong in the environment, and measures should be taken to reduce plastic usage and improve waste management.
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Plastic pollution and wildlife
Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues, with plastic waste harming wildlife and their ecosystems. Plastic pollution in the oceans and on land has become a global crisis, with billions of pounds of plastic making up about 40% of the world's ocean surfaces.
Plastic pollution has a direct and deadly effect on wildlife. Marine animals such as seabirds, turtles, seals, whales, and other marine mammals are killed each year after ingesting plastic or getting entangled in it. Nearly 2,100 species, including endangered ones, are known to have been affected by plastics. Nearly every species of seabird eats plastics, with plastic ingestion reducing the storage volume of the stomach, causing starvation. It is estimated that 60% of all seabird species have eaten plastic, with this number predicted to increase to 99% by 2050.
Discarded fishing nets, plastic ropes, and packaging materials are hazardous to wildlife, causing entanglement and injuries. This physical entanglement disrupts the ability of animals to move, hunt, and feed, impacting their survival and reproductive success. Plastic debris also smothers corals, preventing them from receiving essential sunlight, stifling their growth, and weakening the ecosystem.
Plastics are made from various chemicals, which, when broken down into microplastics, can be absorbed and concentrated by toxic pollutants in the surrounding environment. As animals consume these microplastics, they ingest these pollutants, which can disrupt their endocrine systems, cause reproductive issues, weaken immune systems, and lead to potential long-term health problems.
The impact of plastic pollution on wildlife is a grave concern that demands immediate attention and collective action. While reducing plastic use and recycling are important, the most effective solution is to stop plastic production at its source.
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Solutions to plastic pollution
Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues, as the rapidly increasing production of disposable plastic products has overwhelmed the world's ability to deal with them. Here are some solutions to address this crisis:
Reduce Single-Use Plastic Consumption: The first step is to reduce our reliance on single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, disposable cutlery, straws, and plastic bottles. Opt for reusable alternatives like tote bags, silverware, and travel mugs, which can be used multiple times, reducing plastic waste.
Support Legislation and Policies: Advocate for and support local, national, and international legislation that aims to curb plastic production, improve waste management, and hold plastic producers accountable for their waste. This includes supporting policies that tax or ban unnecessary single-use plastic items.
Improve Waste Management and Recycling: Enhance waste management systems and promote recycling to prevent plastic waste from ending up in oceans and natural environments. This includes proper disposal, collection, and processing of plastic waste, ensuring it doesn't pollute our ecosystems.
Educate and Raise Awareness: Education is crucial to address plastic pollution. Increasing awareness about the impacts of plastic pollution and promoting behavioral changes can lead to a more responsible use and disposal of plastics.
Boycott Microbeads and Microplastics: Avoid products containing microbeads, such as facial scrubs, toothpaste, and body washes. These tiny plastic particles escape water treatment plants and end up in the oceans, causing harm to marine life. Opt for natural exfoliants instead.
Buy in Bulk and Eco-Friendly Packaging: Choose bulk purchases and eco-friendly packaging options to reduce the amount of plastic waste generated. Buying larger containers instead of multiple smaller ones and selecting products in non-plastic packaging can significantly reduce plastic pollution.
Support Organizations: Donate to and support non-profit organizations working to reduce and eliminate ocean plastic pollution, such as the Oceanic Society, Plastic Pollution Coalition, and Plastic Soup Foundation. These organizations play a vital role in addressing this global issue.
By implementing these solutions and making conscious choices in our daily lives, we can collectively tackle the pressing issue of plastic pollution and protect our environment for future generations.
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Frequently asked questions
In 1972, the journal Science published the first scientific findings of marine plastic debris, reporting on small plastic particles found in the Sargasso Sea.
In the 1960s, it became clearer how polluted the ocean was getting. In 1969, a major oil spill occurred off the coast of California, and the polluted Cuyahoga River in Ohio caught fire, raising concerns about pollution.
In 1862, Alexander Parkes developed the first man-made plastic, called Parkesine. However, it was not a commercial success.
In 1907, Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland created the first fully synthetic plastic, Bakelite.
There have been legislative attempts to de-pollute the ocean and remove plastic from waterways. For example, four years after the initial discovery of ocean dumping, the U.S. Congress passed the Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act. In addition, some governments have taken steps to limit or ban the use of plastic bags.
