Why new rules are needed to stop microplastic pollution
Source: https://www.innovationnewsnetwork.com/why-new-rules-needed-stop-microplastic-pollution/31324/
A recent report estimated that more than 171 trillion pieces of plastic are currently circulating in the world’s oceans. Most people are aware of the impact that discarded plastic bottles and packaging have on the environment, but many may not realise that one of the most common forms of plastic pollution is also one of the smallest. Microplastics are tiny particles or fragments of plastic that measure less than 5mm. According to a recent survey of just under 1,000 people carried out by Lanes Group, the scale of the microplastic problem is widely underestimated by many members of the public. Although the survey revealed that 72% of respondents had heard of microplastics prior to taking part in the research, only 6% felt they were well-informed or had any expertise on the topic. In years past, much of the focus of environmental campaigns was placed on consumer action, and emphasised the individual lifestyle changes that can help to drive large-scale progress. In more recent years, however, there has been a growing awareness that the most effective interventions should centre on large-scale policy changes led by governments and industry, which can tackle pollution at its source. Microplastics are a case in point, as the best way of reducing their impact on our ecosystem is to simply stop these plastics from entering the water environment in the first place. Over the last few years, there are signs that lawmakers are coming to understand this – but more progress is needed.