Scientists on a research vessel off the coast of Panama are on a mission to find microplastic, which has become a significant issue in the world’s oceans. An estimated 33 billion pounds of plastic waste enters the oceans each year, breaking down into tiny fragments known as microplastics. A recent study discovered 1.9 million microplastic pieces in just an 11-square-foot area of the Mediterranean Sea. The researchers aim to understand what happens to microplastics when they enter the ocean and how they move from the surface to the seafloor. Currently, about 70% of marine debris sinks to the seafloor, but little is known about its impact. The presence of microplastics in the ocean raises concerns about their potential ingestion by marine life, including fish species consumed by humans. The data collected by the scientists could provide valuable insights into the effects of microplastics on the environment and human health. The research is being conducted on a ship owned by the Schmidt Ocean Institute, funded by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and his wife Wendy. The institute offers the ship to scientists at no cost, with the condition that they share their findings with the global scientific community. This research aims to shed light on the growing problem of plastic pollution and prompt a change in people’s perception of disposable items.
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Billions of pounds of microplastics infiltrate oceans annually, while researchers strive to comprehend their consequences.
