THE PLASTIC CRISIS
As we continue to create more plastic waste, by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish.
The Plastic Tsunami: A Global Deluge
Plastic waste crisis refers to the overwhelming influx of non-biodegradable plastic materials into the environment
Approximately 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic have been produced since the 1950s, and a staggering 91% of it isn’t recycled. This inundation leads to land and ocean pollution, affecting ecosystems and wildlife.
Oceans Suffocating: The Plastic Menace Below
Plastic pollution is wreaking havoc on marine ecosystems, particularly in oceans.
Every year, an estimated 8 million tons of plastic find their way into the oceans. This pollution endangers marine life, as over 800 species are affected by ingestion, entanglement, or habitat disruption. For example, plastic debris poses a severe threat to sea turtles, with half of all species having ingested plastic.
Microplastics: The Unseen Threat
Plastic waste doesn't just disappear; it breaks down into tiny particles known as microplastics
Microplastics, often invisible to the naked eye, contaminate water sources and marine life. A single bottle of water can contain more than 10 particles of microplastics, contributing to the widespread pollution of freshwater ecosystems.
Beyond the Visible: Environmental Domino Effect
Plastic waste crisis goes beyond aesthetic pollution; it triggers a cascading environmental impact
The environmental consequences include disrupted food chains, compromised soil fertility, and increased greenhouse gas emissions from the production and incineration of plastic. By 2050, there could be more plastic than fish in terms of weight in the world’s oceans
Ghost Nets Haunting the Seas: Abandoned Gear's Grim Legacy
Abandoned fishing nets and gears, known as ghost gear, constitute a significant contributor to the marine plastic debris crisis.
Approximately 640,000 tons of fishing gear are lost or discarded in oceans annually. These ghost nets continue to trap marine life indiscriminately, causing “ghost fishing” and contributing to the entanglement and death of countless sea creatures, including dolphins, seals, and whales.
The Inequitable Burden: Plastic's Unequal Impact
The plastic waste crisis disproportionately burdens the Global South, exacerbating environmental and social injustices.
Many developing countries lack proper waste management infrastructure, leading to open dumping and burning of plastic waste. According to the World Bank, more than 90% of ocean plastic comes from just ten rivers, eight of which are in Asia and two in Africa. This not only deepens environmental degradation but also perpetuates social and economic disparities
SOLUTION
By supporting the Sea2See Foundation, you are enabling plastic removal in high-risk coastal and fishing areas. This creates a new source of income for local communities while the coastal environment gets cleaned up.