The good news is that a new method by a research team from Kyushu University has delivered critical new insights about the prominence and behavior of small microplastics in the ocean. The bad news is the findings illuminate just how daunting the problem is.
What's happening?
The scientists published their work in Environmental Science & Technology and summarized the key findings in a press release. What set the Kyushu group's discoveries apart was how the team was able to comprehensively observe small microplastics at a variety of depths.
To do so, the researchers developed a novel method to detect small microplastics by collecting water samples from various ocean depths, ranging from the surface to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) deep. Past collection methods relied on net tows or pumped water samples, lacking detailed depth distribution data.
The method uncovered that small microplastics are ever-present in the ocean. They were found at concentrations of 1,000 to 10,000 particles per cubic meter at various observation points.
Another valuable finding was in how these microscopic plastics behave. Due to their lack of density, they float near the ocean surface. However, a process called biofouling occurs when bacteria, algae, and other marine organisms latch onto them.
The scientists found that some of these small microplastics reach an equilibrium where they achieve a neutral buoyancy in ocean water and drift at heights between 100 and 300 meters (328 and 924 feet). Others incur more biofouling, increase their density further, and sink all the way to the seafloor.
Why is microplastic pollution in the ocean important?
Microplastic pollution is one of the greatest threats to the planet's health. We are slowly discovering just how far and wide these pesky pollutants spread into the ocean.
The environmental impact is concerning, as small plastic fibers can harm aquatic life by causing toxic effects and digestive issues. These nonbiodegradable fibers may also absorb toxins and affect the food chain and drinking water.
The researchers noted that small microplastics that drifted could remain in the water for a remarkable 20-40 years. As more and more plastic pollution gets into the ocean, it's becoming clearer that the cumulative effect is only going to increase.
What's being done about microplastic pollution in the ocean?
The Kyushu team's research is part of many efforts to better understand microplastics' distribution and movement in the ocean.
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Extremely 😫 Professor Atsuhiko Isobe, a leader of the study, explained that better understanding these factors could help "minimize contamination, particle loss, and potential fragmentation." The team hopes to expand its work to discover the effect on marine life and continue to learn more about how far microplastics travel.
Individuals can contribute by reducing single-use plastics, using refillable water bottles, and responsibly recycling, helping to protect both our oceans and communities.
Unfortunately, Isobe was bearish on the outlook for microplastics in the ocean.
"Understanding the environmental impact of microplastics will require more time, but our findings show that the marine environment is becoming irreversibly polluted and necessitates urgent countermeasures," Isobe concluded.
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