Plastic ends up in the ocean in many different ways, which can include ( non-exhaustive list):
Fishing nets and other plastics from fishing vessels as well as debris from merchant vessels, passenger ships, or oil platforms
But this is not the main culprit: more than 80% of plastic ending up in the ocean
comes from land-based activities.
Litter and wrongful disposal of plastic products is the main cause of plastic pollution in the oceans. ( for example plastic bags, take out containers, packaging, straws etc.) These are often carried down rivers or storm drains and end up on the shore.
Illegal dumping or poor waste management of trash on beaches around the globe;
Microplastics from cosmetic and hygiene products, or clothing in our washing machines going down the drain;
Industrial byproducts from improperly conducted or managed production processes.
Comments