Microplastics

In which year, according to estimations, if current trends continue, there will be more plastic in the seas than fish (by weight)?

• 2030

• 2040

• 2050

• 2060

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 2050! As announced in the World Economic Forum in 2016. Do you think we made a lot of progress since then?

An average adult Blue Whale weighs ~100 tonnes.

How many "blue whales" of plastic is added to the ocean EVERY year?

• 100

• 8 000

• 80 000

• 10 000

Answer explanation

An additional 8 000 000 (8 mil) tonnes of plastic are estimated to end up in the ocean every year.

If a blue whale is about 100 tonnes, then 8 000 000/100 =

80 000 blue whales worth of plastic are added to the oceans every year.

Note: It would take more space, because plastic is less dense.

Which of these items would take the longest to break down?

• Bottles

• Plastic bags

• Chocolate wrappers

• Tupperware containers

Answer explanation

Plastic that goes into direct contact with our mouths is the most durable type. Tupperware is made of such plastic.

Which of these could be a source of primary type of microplastic?

• Synthetic paint

• Plastic packaging

• Condoms

• Plastic toothbrushes

The _ _ _ _ garbage patch takes up a larger area than France.

Time to reflect and discuss!

What is the biggest challenge to reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in the ocean?

Evaluate responses using AI:

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Answer explanation

There are many possible answers. Some of the biggest challenges include:

1. Lack of coordinated effort.

2. Lack of infrastructure.

3. Plastic is very cheap and easily available, it's difficult to replace or avoid.

4. This is a global problem, therefore needs a systematic approach, which is difficult to orchestrate on an international level because there is no global governance.