California state to investigate microplastics
The California Ocean Protection Council (OPC) has approved a microplastics study to identify research priorities to reduce microplastic pollution in the marine environment.
Research in California has identified tires, synthetic textiles, cigarette filters and single-use plastic foodware among the top sources of microplastics in California bay and ocean waters, sediment and fish tissue.
The council said an estimated 11 million metric tons of plastic enter the ocean each year; without any intervention, this is anticipated to triple by 2040.
The solutions it is looking at include eliminating plastic waste at the source; intervening in stormwater run-off and wastewater to prevent plastics entering waters; and informing the public and industries of microplastic sources, impacts and solutions.
The research strategy includes a state-wide monitoring approach, improving understanding of impacts to aquatic life and human health and prioritising management solutions.
OPC executive director Mark Gold said: "Some solutions, like stormwater infiltration projects and better compliance with nurdle discharge prohibitions, can reduce microplastics immediately.
"But we cannot dramatically reduce microplastic pollution without leadership from the textile industry and tire manufacturers to produce consumer products that don't add to the growing problem."
