Getting accurate information about plastic pollution in the ocean presents a challenge because there are no international standards for reporting waste. The most widely cited estimate is that 8 million metric tons of plastic are added to the ocean every year. That's about 3,500 gallons a minute.

In short, everywhere. Scientists are finding that even more plastic hides in the depths of the ocean, and an estimated 16 million tons of microplastics are embedded in the sea floor. Otherwise, plastic remains suspended in the water, gets washed up in beach sediments all over the world, and is ingested by marine animals of all sizes.

Plastic is durable and long-lasting, which is why it became so popular. Though these same qualities make for disastrous results when it comes to the life cyce of plastic. While paper, wood, and other naturally derived materials eventually decompose when exposed to the elements, plastic persists for 400 to 1,000 years.

Recycling is a promising, but complicated solution to plastic pollution. Technically, almost all plastic can be recycled, but it is not a widespread solution. The challenges lie with the collection of materials and the economics of selling the recycled product. Keeping plastic that we’ve already produced in use as a more durable product is a promising path to dealing with the mountains of plastic waste we have on hand.

Plastics that are less than 5 mm in diameter are called microplastics. Microplastics are formed when plastic breaks down in the environment or as bits of a product flake off, creating tiny pieces of plastic debris. Plankton, fish, and coral readily ingest microplastics, which enter the food chain and eventually work their way to us.

Besides being ugly, ocean plastic poses an issue because it can choke and entangle sea life. Additionally, plastic damages human health and the livelihoods of coastal communities. It’s estimated that plastic pollution causes $13 billion in damage every year.

While not easy, plastic pollution is a solvable problem. The three best solutions are to reduce the amount of plastic produced/consumed, replace necessary plastic with products designed for optimized disposal, and improve the recycling process of plastic already in circulation. With concerted action, we can reduce global plastic pollution by 78%. 

You can be a part of the solutions by reducing your plastic consumption. Carry a reusable water bottle, shop with a reusable grocery bag, and embrace the many plastic-free alternatives that are becoming available. Businesses can play a role by only offering single-use items when necessary and choosing packing options with minimal plastic. Designing plastic products to be more easily recycled can also advance the solutions.

We're so glad you're interested! Your concern will make a difference. We've curated a library of our favorite resources for you to browse. Subscribing to the Sherpani newsletter is the best way to stay updated about all things BVP. You can contact us at service@sherpani.com