Plastic waste - The potential danger to the ocean

Plastic waste on the ocean is causing damage to the world economy by at least $ 13 billion per year, threatening marine life, tourism and fisheries.

This is a United Nations warning at a global environmental seminar organized by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) in Kenya.

UNEP leader Achim Steiner said plastics are indispensable in modern life, but the use of this material by humans is causing serious impacts on the ecological environment.

UNEP reports that plastic waste (including plastic bottles, plastic bags, food containers .) is the cause of death for many marine species when swallowed such as turtles, dolphins and whales. or negatively impact habitats like coral reefs.

In addition, chemical pollution caused by plastic waste also causes damage to the fisheries and tourism industries of many countries.

According to UNEP, there have been many reports of marine organisms ingesting toxic plastics that often exist as small fragments of less than 5mm diameter. Thanks to ocean currents, these fragments can travel throughout the ocean, becoming prey to seabirds, fish, worms and zooplankton, then transforming into toxic chemicals in their food. human.

One of the most recently emerging dangers is the "micro plastic particles" contained in toothpaste, gel and facial cleansing products. These particles cannot be eliminated through the wastewater treatment process and are therefore poured directly into rivers, lakes and oceans.

The report shows the urgent situation for companies to review the use of plastics in production and business, similar to carbon, water and forest exploitation. Experts also say that recycling can help businesses save a lot of costs.

UNEP report published at UNEP conference brings together more than 1,200 delegates and experts.

The week-long conference on June 27 will discuss many topics including environmental challenges, sustainable production and consumption, promoting "green economy" , combating wildlife trade. environment and law.