‘Out of control’ pandemic waste spills over oceans – study

“The recent COVID-19 pandemic has increased demand for single-use plastics, intensifying the pressure on this already out of control problem,” A team of Chinese and American researchers developed a . written in paper Published by the US National Academy of Sciences. “Globally more than eight million tons of pandemic-linked plastic waste have been generated, with more than 25,000 tons entering the global ocean,” He added.

also on rt.com
Plastic Pollution Could Hit Our Oceans in 30 Years, and Global Trade Titans Just Don’t Care

This is not the first study to link the increase in pollution to the increase in personal protective equipment (PPE) generated during the pandemic. The ubiquitous face masks that now litter beaches and high roads can take centuries to decompose, breaking down harmful microplastics that are leaching up. With an estimated 129 billion face masks and 65 billion gloves worldwide each month, scientists have already called for the use of more eco-friendly materials in the production of PPE.

However, the latest study identifies the sources and destinations of most of this waste. Hospitals account for about 90% of the discarded PPE, with individuals responsible for only 7%. Most of the waste (79%) enters the global ocean through just 10 rivers.

Overall, Asian rivers account for 73% of waste discharge, followed by European rivers with 11%.

also on rt.com
Plastic, other chemical pollutants are reducing penis size and impairing fertility, endangering mankind, scientists claim

Once in the ocean, much of this waste remains close to its source, with East and South Asia, South Africa and the Caribbean being identified as hotspots. 13 percent float in seawater, 16% sink to the ocean floor, and 71% float ashore.

Researchers warn that “The epidemic will not be completely controlled in a couple of years,” A further 34,000 tonnes of discarded PPE will end up in the oceans, with much of the bulk added to “garbage patch” In the North and South Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as in the Indian Ocean. The Arctic Ocean has also been identified as the final resting place for some of this waste, and the researchers caution that the area deserves “particular concern” Because of its already high sensitivity to climate change.

While the exact toll on the environment by PPE may seem dire, pandemic-related waste is a literal drop in the ocean compared to the overall problem of plastic pollution, with rivers accounting for just 1.5% of all plastic entering the oceans.

Think your friends would be interested? Share this story!