Reviewed by Lexie CornerSep 20 2024
Writing in the journal Science, an international group of experts stated that the need for global action to address all forms of plastic and microplastic debris has never been more urgent.
The report argues that scientific evidence is sufficient to support a coordinated global approach to tackle the ongoing spread of plastic pollution. Current national laws are inadequate, and the United Nations Plastic Pollution Treaty, set for its fifth round of discussions in November 2024, presents a "tangible opportunity" for such action.
For the treaty to be effective, the experts stress the need for a commitment to reducing overall plastic production and implementing measures to curb the emission and release of microplastics throughout the plastic life cycle. They warn that failing to take these steps could result in “a high risk of irreversible environmental damage.”
The article commemorates the 20th anniversary of the first study, also published in the journal Science, that introduced the term "microplastics" to describe the microscopic plastic fragments found in the ocean.
Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS, Head of the University of Plymouth's International Marine Litter Research Unit and co-coordinator of the Scientists Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty, led both studies.
The study was co-authored by experts in marine biology, sustainability, environmental psychology, global plastics policy, and risk assessment from Wageningen University (Netherlands), the University of Vienna (Austria), the University of Wollongong (Australia), the University of Plymouth, the University of Bangor (UK), and EA—Earth Action (Switzerland).
After 20 years of research, there is clear evidence of harmful effects from microplastic pollution on a global scale. That includes physical harm to wildlife, harm to societies and cultures, and a growing evidence base of harm to humans. Added to that is the fact that microplastics are persistent contaminants, and once in the environment, they are virtually impossible to remove. There are still unknowns, but during the 20 years since our first study, the amount of plastic in our oceans has increased by around 50 %, only further emphasizing the pressing need for action.
Richard Thompson OBE FRS, Director, Marine Institute, University of Plymouth
Approximately 7,000 research studies on microplastics have been published since the initial study in 2004, providing substantial evidence on their sources, impacts, and potential solutions.
Microplastics have been found in over 1,300 aquatic and terrestrial species, food, drink, and various human tissues and organs, highlighting their global presence.
With annual microplastic emissions to the environment estimated to reach up to 40 megatonnes, and potentially doubling by 2040, predictions suggest significant environmental damage in the coming century.
Plastic pollution is completely caused by human actions. That is why we need research on perceptions of the risks and benefits of plastic as well as other drivers of policy support and change, integrating a social science perspective.
Sabine PahlSabine Pahl, Honorary Professor, Applied Social Psychology, University of Plymouth
Journal Reference:
Thompson, R. C., et al. (2024) Twenty years of microplastic pollution research what have we learned? Science. doi.org/10.1126/science.adl2746.