Why are we swimming in plastic?

1. how does the plastic get into the sea?

Most plastic waste comes from the land. For example, it is blown into the sea from coastal rubbish dumps or ends up in the oceans via streams and rivers. Sometimes people simply leave their rubbish on the beach. However, a lot of waste also comes from ships, for example fishing nets are often lost or waste is dumped directly into the sea.

2 Why is plastic waste a problem?

Plastic decomposes very slowly and can float in the sea for hundreds of years. There is now so much of it that islands of rubbish have formed that are the size of entire countries. Plastic waste is very dangerous for animals: countless seabirds, turtles, seals and whales become entangled in it, injure themselves or suffocate.

The unhealthy microplastics can also enter the human body through the consumption of affected fish.

In addition, many animals mistake plastic for food and die from it. Microplastics are also a major problem: these tiny particles are created when plastic in the sea breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces due to waves, wind and sun. Shampoo, toothpaste and clothing made from synthetic fibres also often contain microplastics and end up in the sea via wastewater. There it is swallowed by fish, for example. If we humans then eat these fish, the unhealthy plastic can also end up in our bodies.

3. what can I do?

• Avoid plastic waste! For example, take your own bag with you when you go shopping and don't use plastic bags. And if you no longer like your plastic toys, don't just throw them away, but sell them or give them away.
• Dispose of it correctly! Always throw your plastic waste in the rubbish bin so that it doesn't end up in the environment.
• Clean up! If you discover rubbish on the beach or elsewhere in nature, collect it.