Estuaries and coastlines capture most plastic before it gets out to sea
Estuaries capture 60% to 90% of plastic waste, suggesting local clean-up can reduce marine pollution. An international treaty to cut plastic emissions is expected by late 2024, requiring ongoing cleanup efforts.
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Estuaries and coastlines play a crucial role in capturing plastic waste before it reaches the ocean, presenting an opportunity to mitigate marine pollution. Research conducted in Auckland's Waitematā estuary revealed that a significant portion of plastic debris—between 60% to 90%—is retained within estuaries during tidal cycles. This retention occurs due to the unique currents that push debris towards the shore during incoming tides and trap it along the sides during outgoing tides. The study indicates that much of the plastic waste generated locally does not travel far into the ocean but instead accumulates in these coastal areas, acting as reservoirs of plastic pollution. This finding shifts the perspective on plastic waste management, suggesting that local clean-up efforts can significantly reduce the amount of plastic entering marine environments. An international treaty aimed at reducing plastic emissions is expected to be established by the end of 2024, targeting a reduction of 53 million metric tons of new plastics by 2030. However, ongoing cleanup efforts will be necessary to address the existing plastic pollution legacy.
- Estuaries capture 60% to 90% of plastic waste before it reaches the ocean.
- Local clean-up initiatives can effectively reduce marine plastic pollution.
- Plastic waste accumulates in coastal areas, acting as reservoirs.
- An international treaty to curb plastic emissions is anticipated by late 2024.
- Continued efforts are needed to address the long-term impacts of plastic pollution.
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