Source:
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
Author(s):
Geography:
Global
Type:
Primary Data, Strategy
Purpose of Measurement:
Understanding the Problem, Solution Sets and Impact Potential
Impact theme(s):
Climate, Oceans, Policy, Behavior Change, Material Flows
This article highlights the current global plastic pollution scenario, its impact on human health, oceans, and climate and strategies to mitigate the issue. Specifically, it highlights that plastic debris is currently the most abundant type of litter in the ocean, making up 80% of all marine debris found from surface waters to deep-sea sediments. This impacts the marine environment. It threatens ocean health, the health of marine species, food safety and quality, human health, coastal tourism, and contributes to climate change. Lastly, the article mentions that it will require solutions which go beyond waste management and consider the whole lifecycle of plastic products, from design to infrastructure, and household use.