p l a s t i c s

In 2015, 2-10% of all plastic waste produced ended up in the ocean. If waste management does not improve by 2025, approximately 17-47% of annual plastic waste could enter the ocean.

Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean. Jambeck et al. 2015.

 

Plastic pollution isn’t only affecting coastal communities and marine ecosystems. A USGS survey of rain and other precipitation samples at 8 urban and rural sites in Colorado found plastic fibers, beads, and other shards in over 90% of the samples.

It is raining plastic. G.A. Wetherbee, A.K. Baldwin, and J.F. Ranville. 2019.

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According to a 2007 study, almost one-third of all municipal solid waste (MSW) generated in the U.S. in 2005 was comprised of “packaging related materials.” These materials include paper and paperboard, plastic, glass, and metal.

Food packaging - roles, materials, and environmental issues. K. Marsh & B. Bugusu. 2007.