Ocean Plastics Where Does It Come From?

It’s estimated 1% of ocean plastic comes from the USA and 90% comes from 10 major rivers flowing through less developed countries which have poor waste collection and management systems. Numerous NGOs are trying to tackle this problem with some success. https://innovations-oceans-sans-plastique.com/en/ngo-from-a-z/

Some NGOs propose bans while others are trying to remove plastic floating in the ocean https://theoceancleanup.com/ and some turn ocean plastics into high priced consumer products inadvertently promoting the disposal of garbage into the ocean. The most successful will be programs that keep garbage from being disposed of in rivers and oceans. https://www.cleanhub.com/
https://repurpose.global/our-story

Plastics are Less than 20% of waste generated yet it is the most visible component in the ocean as much of it floats. The waste paper, steel and glass all sink to the bottom. Hazardous and toxic chemicals disperse and become invisible unless they create algae blooms or close beaches to swimming. Floating plastics have been documented in countless media photos intended to generate rage and solicit donations. Like the turtle with a straw in its nose.

Most of the ocean plastics coming from the USA come from antiquated storm water management systems in coastal cities like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco. There are studies being done and systems being implemented that will reduce the discharge of plastics from these systems into the ocean. Ultimately people need to be educated and litter needs to be stopped.

CPC is available to help your organization’s plastics clean up efforts and education presentations.