The consortium of plastic organizations from across the world announced that global plastics industry has made significant progress in preventing marine litter. The recently released annual progress report states that the activities to prevent plastic litter in the coastal and marine environment have gone up by more than 165%. The efforts are on with approximately 260 projects planned, underway or completed.
Marine Litter
Marine littering according to this consortium is defined as human-created waste which can cause serious harm to ocean ecosystems, wildlife and humans. Estimates suggest that nearly 80% of the marine litter is from land-based sources such as poor waste management and sewage overflows. Roughly 70% of the marine litter including glass and metals sinks to the ocean floor, whereas the lighter weight materials such as plastics float on the surface.
Dr Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, Secretary-General, Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA) observed that the marine litter is caused by a minority section of consumers who dispose of their plastic products carelessly and inappropriately. Further, he emphasized on the need to raise awareness about proper waste management and plastic scrap recycling.
Marine litter or littering can injure coral reefs and bottom dwelling species and entangle or drown ocean wildlife. Some marine animals ingest the litter, which can result in starvation and death. Medical waste (such as syringes), sharp objects, and large pieces of litter can pose a direct threat to humans. In addition, the economic impact of marine litter is significant.