The current state of the marine debris problem and its seriousness
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- 3月5日
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The growing problem of marine debris around the world
In recent years, the problem of marine litter has become a major international issue. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), approximately 8 million tons of plastic litter flows into the ocean every year, and the amount is steadily increasing. This is equivalent to one truckload of litter being dumped into the ocean every minute. If things continue as they are, it is predicted that the amount of plastic in the ocean will exceed the weight of fish by 2050, which is a very serious problem for our future.
Main causes of marine debris
Most marine debris comes from our daily lives. The main causes are as follows:
Excessive consumption of plastic products
In modern society, we use a large amount of disposable plastic, such as PET bottles, shopping bags, food containers, etc. Much of this plastic is not properly disposed of and ends up in the ocean due to wind and rain.
Improper waste management
In many countries and regions around the world, waste is not properly disposed of. In particular, developing countries often lack adequate waste disposal infrastructure, and waste is often dumped directly into rivers and oceans.
Impacts of fishing activities
"Ghost gear" - unused fishing nets, ropes, fishing tackle and other debris - is one of the major sources of marine debris. It is left in the ocean and can become entangled or cause damage to marine life.
Tourism and leisure activities
There are many cases where trash thrown away during beach barbecues and leisure activities ends up in the sea. The more tourists there are, the more marine trash there tends to be.
The serious impacts of marine debris
1. Impact on marine life
Plastic that ends up in the ocean has serious effects on marine life.
Sea turtles and fish mistake the plastic for food and ingest it, causing indigestion and choking.
The phenomenon of "ghost fishing" has occurred, with people becoming entangled in abandoned fishing nets and lines and becoming unable to move.
The accumulation of plastic in the bodies of marine organisms has adverse effects on the growth and reproduction of these organisms.
2. Impact on humans
Microplastics (tiny plastics smaller than 5mm) can accumulate in marine ecosystems and ultimately be ingested by humans.
It enters our diets through fish and shellfish, raising concerns about the health risks.
Microplastics are prone to harboring harmful chemicals, which can pose long-term health risks.
3. Economic impact
Increased marine debris has a negative impact on tourism (deteriorating beach scenery, etc.).
The rising costs of collecting and disposing of garbage are putting pressure on local government finances.
Damage to fishing industries (damage to fishing nets, impacts of contaminated seafood, etc.).
What we can do
There are many things that individuals can do to help solve the marine litter problem.
Reducing plastic use
Use your own bottles and eco-bags to reduce the use of disposable plastics.
Choose environmentally friendly products.
Proper waste disposal and recycling
Separate your garbage thoroughly and be mindful of recycling.
Try to live a life that avoids unnecessary plastic as much as possible.
Participating in beach clean-up activities
Participate in local beach cleanup activities and contribute to trash collection.
After leisure at the beach, be sure to take your trash home with you.
Learn about and spread awareness of environmental issues
Discuss marine debris with your family and friends.
Disseminate information about environmental issues through social media etc.
summary
The problem of marine litter is a major issue that is closely related to our lives. Small, everyday actions will help protect the ocean's beauty for the future. It is important that each of us is aware of what we can do and take action.
SUSTAINABLE JAPAN is engaged in various activities to address the problem of marine debris. We will continue to contribute to environmental protection with the aim of creating a sustainable society.