Microplastics

In which year, according to estimations, if current trends continue, there will be more plastic in the seas than fish (by weight)?

• 2030

• 2040

• 2050

• 2060

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 2050! As announced in the World Economic Forum in 2016. Do you think we made a lot of progress since then?

An average adult Blue Whale weighs ~100 tonnes.

How many "blue whales" of plastic is added to the ocean EVERY year?

• 100

• 8 000

• 80 000

• 10 000

Answer explanation

An additional 8 000 000 (8 mil) tonnes of plastic are estimated to end up in the ocean every year.

If a blue whale is about 100 tonnes, then 8 000 000/100 =

80 000 blue whales worth of plastic are added to the oceans every year.

Note: It would take more space, because plastic is less dense.

Which of these items would take the longest to break down?

• Bottles

• Plastic bags

• Chocolate wrappers

• Tupperware containers

Answer explanation

Plastic that goes into direct contact with our mouths is the most durable type. Tupperware is made of such plastic.

Which of these could be a source of primary type of microplastic?

• Synthetic paint

• Plastic packaging

• Condoms

• Plastic toothbrushes

The _ _ _ _ garbage patch takes up a larger area than France.

Time to reflect and discuss!

What is the biggest challenge to reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in the ocean?

Answer explanation

There are many possible answers. Some of the biggest challenges include:

1. Lack of coordinated effort.

2. Lack of infrastructure.

3. Plastic is very cheap and easily available, it's difficult to replace or avoid.

4. This is a global problem, therefore needs a systematic approach, which is difficult to orchestrate on an international level because there is no global governance.