As we have already discussed on other occasions, plastic is a major pollutant for our seas and oceans. Millions of tons of plastic are stored in our oceans, causing negative impacts on the flora and fauna that live in them.
There are about 12 million tons of plastic waste in the seas. This pollution is not as visible as other forms of pollution, but it is clearly a global problem. Experts estimate that up to five percent of all plastics produced worldwide end up as litter in the seas. But what happens to these plastics? And what are their effects on the marine ecosystem?
Pollution of seas and oceans
Most plastics reach the sea through rivers. Once this waste reaches the ocean, it is distributed by marine currents, affecting large areas. Waste is not only found on the coasts, but also on the surface and bottom of the sea. In addition, 80% of marine pollution comes from land, while only 20% is generated by maritime activities such as ships.
Plastic waste can end up in the sea due to improper waste management, wind and rain that carry it into rivers, and also accidental spills. Once in the ocean, its fate is uncertain: it can float, sink or be swallowed by marine fauna. This brings us to one of the most alarming aspects of this environmental crisis: microplastics.
The problem of microplastics
One of the biggest problems in plastic pollution today is microplastics. These are small plastic particles, resulting from the degradation of larger items or particles released directly into the environment through cosmetics or tire abrasion. It is currently estimated that 5 trillion microplastic particles are floating in our oceans, with a total weight of 270.000 tons. According to research, 94% of seabirds that die on the coasts of Germany have microplastics in their stomachs.
Microplastics are difficult to remove from the environment and are easily dispersed. Their small size means that many animals ingest them thinking they are food, causing digestive problems, malnutrition and sometimes death. Furthermore, by entering the food chain, humans can also consume microplastics through seafood.
Plastic bags and the problem of emerging countries
In many developed countries, such as Germany, plastic bags are increasingly restricted or eliminated. However, in some emerging economies, plastic use continues to increase due to industrial growth. This significantly increases plastic pollution. According to recent data, around 150 million tons of plastic are already floating in the oceans.
In these regions, waste collection and management systems are inadequate or non-existent. The lack of adequate infrastructure makes it easy for plastic waste to end up in rivers and then in the seas, becoming a global problem. For example, Only 9% of plastic is recycled worldwide, exacerbating the plastic waste crisis. Pollution caused by emerging countries seriously affects marine ecosystems and represents a global challenge.
The cost of cleaning a coastline of just one kilometer can reach 65.000 Euros per year, which places a huge financial burden on local governments.
Impact on marine fauna
The impact of plastic on marine life is devastating. More than 600 species Marine life is affected by plastic waste, either by ingestion or by getting caught in it. Whales, dolphins and sea turtles mistake plastic waste for food, which has serious consequences. In 2018, a whale was found in Murcia with 30 kilograms of plastic in his stomach, which caused his death from abdominal infection.
Microplastics not only harm larger species, but also affect small fish and other ocean creatures. These particles accumulate in their bodies and, when consumed by larger predators, enter the food chain. Eventually, humans can also consume these microplastics when they eat contaminated seafood.
Plastic and its relationship with climate change
Plastic not only has negative effects on marine ecosystems, but also influences climate change. More from 90% of the plastic The plastic we use today is made from fossil fuels such as oil and gas. Plastic production generates large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the main gases contributing to global warming. In 2015, global emissions related to plastic production were 1,7 gigatonnes of CO2. If plastic production continues at the current rate, those emissions are expected to triple to about 2050 gigatonnes by 6,5.
Even once in the environment, plastics continue to contribute to climate change. Studies have shown that when plastics are exposed to sunlight, they release methane and ethylene, two powerful greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.
Possible solutions and alternative policies
In the face of this crisis, many countries and organizations have begun to implement policies to reduce the use of plastics and promote a circular economy. These policies focus on reducing single-use plastics, promoting recycling, and developing alternative materials that are more environmentally friendly.
The European Union has banned certain single-use plastic products, such as straws, cutlery, plates and cotton buds. In addition, biodegradable plastics based on natural materials such as starch and algae are being developed. Although these alternatives are not yet a perfect solution, they represent a first step towards a future with less dependence on plastic.
At a global level, other approaches are being considered, such as extended producer responsibility, where companies that make plastic products must cover the costs of managing their waste. This could include everything from recycling to cleaning up polluted beaches.
As consumers, we can also be part of the solution by reducing our use of plastics, recycling properly and opting for sustainable alternatives.
Plastic has gone from being a revolutionary material to becoming a threat to the environment. While we are already seeing the devastating consequences, we still have time to change this trend and protect our oceans.