Global issues flashcard

Front

What is the name for a large ocean current that circulates around the globe?

Back

Gyre

Front

How many tons of plastic are estimated to enter the ocean every year from rivers?

Back

1 to 2 million tons

Front

Where does most of the debris in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch come from? Harbors, Marinas, Rivers, All of the above

Back

All of the above

Front

How long does it take for debris to travel from the west coast of North America to the gyre?

Back

About ten years

Front

How big is the Great Pacific Garbage Patch estimated to be?

Back

1,000,000 square miles

Front

What percentage of objects in the garbage patch are tiny plastic pieces smaller than 0.5 cm?

Back

Over 90%

Front

What does current research suggest about the size of the garbage patch?

Back

It is growing rapidly

Front

Which state was the first to ban single-use plastic bags at large stores?

Back

California

Front

Which countries have laws that ban or tax single-use plastic bags? Australia, China, The United Kingdom, All of the above

Back

All of the above

Front

What are some risks that the garbage patch poses to animals and humans?

Back

Fish and whales may mistake plastic for food; Humans may eat fish that have consumed plastic with toxins; Animals can get trapped in plastic waste.