Sources, Fate and Effects of Microplastics in the Marine Environment: A Global Assessment (Part 1)

Plastics have become indispensable in many areas of modern life, used for clothing, storage, transportation, packaging, construction and a host of consumer goods. One of plastics greatest properties, its durability, is also one of the main reasons that plastics present a threat to the marine environment. To understand this issue better, GESAMP was tasked to conduct a global assessment, based on published information, of the sources, fate and effects of microplastics in the marine environment. GESAMP Reports & Studies No.90 presents the full assessment carried out by GESAMP, through Working Group 40.