UW.is / News / Understanding species-microplastics interactions

Tuesday 5. May 2015

Understanding species-microplastics interactions

Lisa Hentschel

This study illustrates how marine science deals with uncertainty and complexity. While some microplastic-species interactions produce inconclusive results, other studies deliver first evidence of the negative influence of microplastics. This study helps to understand species-level impacts of microplastic pollution for range of marine organism from the base of the marine food web.
While trying to understand its effects on complex biological systems, it should be highlighted that microplastic pollution is irreversible, meaning there is no method suitable for removing it. There is abundant evidence of the presence of this contaminant in the ocean and the level of pollution is expected to grow. Thus, the precautionary approach is urged to be applied and research supporting mitigation of plastic pollution and decision-makers should be prioritized.

Back