GARBAGE IN THE SEA.
Is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean thousands of kilometers away from any land. Due to the natural ocean currents, debris from humans are swept away into this patch (vortex) and remain there. As the plastics break down into small, tiny pieces that remain on the surface of the water, it is difficult for satellites to determine the actual size of the garbage patch. Despite the size of the patch, which is estimated to be at least the size of Texas (or Yukon Territory), it also extends far into the ocean depths.
As humans dispose of their garbage, animals such as marine life and birds are greatly affected by the pollution, resulting in their death by ingesting tiny pieces of plastic that they have mistaken for food.
As humans dispose of their garbage, animals such as marine life and birds are greatly affected by the pollution, resulting in their death by ingesting tiny pieces of plastic that they have mistaken for food.
The amount of debris in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch accumulates because much of it is not biodegradable. Many plastics, for instance, do not wear down; they simply break into tinier and tinier pieces.
The seafloor beneath the Great Pacific Garbage Patch may also be an underwater trash heap. Oceanographers and ecologists recently discovered that about 70% of marine debris actually sinks to the bottom of the ocean.
MARINE DEBRIS
No one knows how much debris makes up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. The North Pacific Subtropical Gyre is too large for scientists to trawl. In addition, not all trash floats on the surface. Denser debris can sink centimeters or even several meters beneath the surface, making the vortex’s area nearly impossible to measure..jpg)
PATCHING AT THE PATCH
Scientists and explorers agree that limiting or eliminating our use of disposable plastics and increasing our use of biodegradable resources will be the best way to clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Organizations such as the Plastic Pollution Coalition and the Plastic Oceans Foundation are using social media and direct action campaigns to support individuals, manufacturers, and businesses in their transition from toxic, disposable plastics to biodegradable or reusable materials.
VIDEO OF INTEREST.
