Supply: The Guardian
New analysis has discovered that about 9.2 million tons (8.4 million metric tons) of pandemic-related plastic waste, similar to masks and gloves, has been generated by 193 nations from the beginning of the pandemic to mid-August 2021. The work makes use of modeling to estimate that greater than 28,000 tons (25,000 metric tons) of this plastic waste has ended up within the ocean.
The research, “Plastic Waste Release Caused by COVID-19 and Its Fate in the Global Ocean,” revealed within the on-line journal PNAS, concludes that about 87.4% of the plastic was utilized by hospitals, whereas particular person use accounted for 7.6%. About 4.7% and 0.3%, respectively, may very well be attributed to packaging and take a look at kits. The authors predict that, as of August 23, 369 main rivers have transported about 28,550 tons (25,900 metric tons) of plastic particles to the ocean. In accordance with the research, by the top of this yr, greater than 70% may have washed up on seashores, and inside three years, nearly all of the waste will transfer from the floor ocean to seashores and the seabed.
The researchers be aware that coastal environments close to the unique sources might be impacted most within the quick time period, however long run, the scientists predict rubbish patches might kind within the open ocean, such because the northeast Pacific and the southeast Indian oceans. A lot of the plastic that’s swept towards the Arctic Circle will sink to the ocean flooring. The mannequin additionally predicts {that a} circumpolar plastic accumulation zone will kind as quickly as 2025.
The research highlights the significance of plastic waste administration methods specializing in main rivers and watersheds, specifically limiting single-use plastics and utilizing sustainable alternate options, and enhancing methods for gathering, treating and disposing of medical plastic waste in growing nations.
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