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LONDON - Plastic pollution will remain on ocean surfaces for more than 100 years even if all inputs cease today, according to a new study published by the Royal Society of London.
The research reveals that even after a century, approximately 10% of initial plastic mass would still be present on ocean surfaces, continuing to generate microplastics. These findings highlight limitations in current plastic management strategies.
"Even after 100 years 10% of the initial plastic mass still remains at the surface providing a continual source of microplastics," the study states, emphasizing that approaches beyond input reduction and cleanup efforts are necessary to address marine plastic pollution.
Symphony Environmental Technologies Plc (AIM:SYM), which produces biodegradable plastic technology, noted in a press release that the study underscores the need for plastics designed to safely biodegrade in marine environments rather than persisting for decades.
The company’s d2w oxo-biodegradable technology is currently mandated in several countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Bahrain, according to the company statement.
The Royal Society publication adds to growing scientific literature examining the long-term environmental impacts of conventional plastics and potential mitigation strategies.
Current global plastic management primarily focuses on reducing usage, reusing products, and recycling materials, approaches that the study suggests may be insufficient to address the scale of existing ocean pollution.
The research comes amid increasing international attention on plastic waste management and growing regulatory pressure to develop more environmentally sustainable materials for consumer and industrial applications.
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