The oceans, covering over 70% of our planet, are facing an unprecedented threat – microplastic pollution. Invisible to the naked eye, these tiny plastic fragments, less than 5mm in size, are accumulating at alarming rates across all marine environments, from surface waters to the deepest ocean trenches.
This pervasive contamination originates primarily from the breakdown of larger plastic debris through weathering, fragmentation by waves and currents, and industrial abrasion. Furthermore, microplastics are intentionally produced – as microbeads in cosmetics and cleaning products, and as fragments from synthetic textiles during washing. The sheer volume of plastic waste entering our oceans annually—estimated to be over 8 million tonnes—fuels this crisis exponentially.
The consequences of microplastic pollution are far-reaching and complex, affecting marine organisms at all trophic levels.
Mass production of plastics begins, leading to increased consumption and waste generation. Early concerns about plastic pollution are dismissed.
Captain Monty Naumann discovers a large accumulation of floating plastics in the North Pacific Ocean, highlighting the scale of plastic pollution.
Scientists begin to investigate microplastics and their presence in marine environments. The term "microplastic" gains widespread recognition.
Several countries, including the United States and Canada, implement bans on the use of microbeads in personal care products.
Addressing microplastic pollution requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing prevention, remediation, and policy changes.