水産養殖研究開発ジャーナル

概要

Plastic and its effect on marine environment

Sri Lakshmi Ajit

Plastic is a petroleum-based synthetic organic polymer having qualities that make it appropriate for a wide range of uses, including packaging, construction, home and sporting goods, cars, electronics, and agriculture. Plastic is a versatile material that is inexpensive, lightweight, strong, and pliable. Every year, more than 300 million tonnes of plastic are manufactured, half of which is used to manufacture single-use goods like shopping bags, cups, and straws.

Every year, at least 8 million tonnes of plastic wind up in our oceans. Floating plastic waste is the most common type of marine litter right now. From surface waters to deep-sea strata, waste plastic accounts for 80% of all marine trash. Plastic has been detected on all continents’ shorelines, with greater amounts of plastic surrounding popular tourist destinations and highly populated places.