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Map of the Week – Seafloor litter – Plastic bags density

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Published on: Fri, 26/11/2021 - 19:03
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    The Map of the Week shows the density of plastic bags at the seafloor expressed as the number of bags collected by fish-trawl surveys over the period of one year. Note that the absence of collected data in some areas does not mean they are free from plastic bags.

    Did you know that the European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR) is taking place from 20 to 28 November 2021? It is the biggest campaign to raise awareness about waste prevention in Europe. Its objectives are to:

    • raise awareness about waste reduction, product reuse and material recycling strategies, and related European Union and Member States policies;
    • highlight the work accomplished by EWWR participants;
    • mobilise and encourage European citizens to concentrate on four key action themes;
    • reinforce EWWR stakeholders’ capacities by providing them with targeted communication tools and training.

    It is estimated that more than 150 million tonnes of plastics have accumulated in the world's ocean, while 4.6-12.7 million tonnes are added every year. Approximately 80% of marine litter is land-based. [1] Therefore, we can all contribute to reducing marine litter through waste prevention wherever we live, be it along the coast or far away from the ocean.

    Dive into the Map of the Week to learn more about seafloor litter plastic bags density.

    Wondering what you can do?

    Access the map

    The data in this map are provided by EMODnet.

    [1] https://ec.europa.eu/environment/marine/good-environmental-status/descriptor-10/index_en.htm