A recent study has found that the previous estimates of plastic pollution in the ocean were overestimated. Although there is less plastic present, the existing plastic could persist for a considerable duration. The study concluded that over 95 percent of the plastic floating on the ocean is comprised of pieces larger than 25 millimeters (one inch). In contrast, the total mass of microplastics, which are less than five millimeters (0.2 inches), is relatively low. The authors of the study, which was published in the journal Nature Geoscience, suggest that the total amount of plastic in the ocean is much lower than previously believed. Currently, plastic pollution in the ocean is estimated at more than 25 million metric tons, with about three million tons floating on the surface. The presence of larger plastic pieces on the surface makes it easier to clean up compared to microplastics.

‘Take action now’

The study also revealed that the annual amount of new plastic entering the ocean is lower than previously estimated. Instead of four to 12 million tons, only about half a million tons of new plastic finds its way into the ocean each year. However, the combination of more surface plastic and less new plastic suggests that the existing plastic will remain in the ocean for a longer period than previously believed. This means that it will take longer to see the effects of measures to combat plastic waste. The lead author of the study, Mikael Kaandorp, emphasized the need for immediate action to prevent prolonged negative consequences. Without further mitigation and clean-up efforts, the amount of plastic litter in the ocean could double within the next two decades. Plastic pollution poses significant threats to marine life and ecosystems, causing the death of over a million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals annually. The study coincides with the upcoming release of an international UN treaty to combat plastic pollution, scheduled for November.

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