Published in the journal 'Science', the study stresses the importance of a comprehensive strategy through the United Nations' Plastic Pollution Treaty, which is scheduled for its fifth round of discussions in November 2024. The researchers underscore that this treaty provides a "tangible opportunity" for unified international efforts, but warn that it must include measures to significantly reduce plastic production and limit the release of microplastic particles throughout the plastic lifecycle.
According to the experts, without a commitment to cutting plastic production, the environment faces a "high risk of irreversible environmental damage."
This report coincides with the 20th anniversary of the pioneering study that first introduced the term "microplastics" in the journal 'Science'. Both the original and current studies were led by Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS, Head of the International Marine Litter Research Unit at the University of Plymouth, and co-coordinator of the Scientists Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty. The research team included specialists from various institutions across the globe, including the University of Bangor, EA - Earth Action, University of Vienna, University of Wollongong, and Wageningen University.
Professor Thompson noted: "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 emphasising the pressing need for action."
Since the first study in 2004, around 7,000 further studies have explored the sources, impacts, and solutions related to microplastics. These tiny plastic particles have now been detected in over 1,300 species across aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, in the food and drink we consume, and even within human tissues and organs.
With microplastic emissions to the environment estimated to be as high as 40 megatonnes annually, a figure that could potentially double by 2040, scientists are concerned about the long-term consequences. They warn of broad-scale environmental damage if action is delayed.
Professor Sabine Pahl, an expert in Urban and Environmental Psychology at the University of Vienna and Honorary Professor at the University of Plymouth, emphasized the human role in plastic pollution: "Plastic pollution is completely caused by human actions. That's why we need research on perceptions of risks and benefits of plastic as well as other drivers of policy support and change, integrating a social science perspective."
Research Report:Twenty years of microplastics pollution research - what have we learned?
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University of Plymouth
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