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Complete Guide to Eco Bio Plastics in Midland: A DIY Journey to Sustainability

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Estimated Time: 5-7 hours
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Indicative Cost: $100 – $300
Savings vs Professional: Save up to 70%!

Opening with Storytelling and Pain

Picture this: you’re at home, surrounded by a pile of plastic waste that seems to grow bigger every week. You’ve seen the news about environmental issues, and you can’t shake the feeling of guilt every time you toss a plastic bottle into the trash. You think about how long those plastics will linger in landfills, polluting our planet. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? You wish you could do something—anything—to make a difference, but where do you start?

Many people suffer from this same feeling of helplessness. They want to reduce their carbon footprint but feel overwhelmed by the complexities of sustainable living. The cost of hiring professionals to guide them through eco-friendly practices can also be daunting. What if I told you that you don’t need to wait for someone else to come and solve this problem for you? You can take matters into your own hands and start your journey towards sustainability right at home.

Every day you wait is another day that plastic waste accumulates, contributing to a growing environmental crisis. However, there is hope. By learning how to implement eco bio plastics in Midland, you can not only reduce waste but also save money—up to 70% compared to hiring professionals. Imagine celebrating the completion of your project, feeling empowered and proud of your efforts to protect the planet.

Why Do It Yourself: Benefits and Savings

When it comes to eco bio plastics, embracing a DIY approach has numerous advantages that go beyond saving money. Here’s why you should consider taking on this project yourself:

  • Cost-Effective: By opting for a DIY solution, you can save a significant amount of money. The average cost for hiring a professional to handle eco-friendly installations can range from $300 to $1,000. In contrast, you can complete the same work for as little as $100.
  • Learning Experience: You will gain valuable skills and knowledge about eco bio plastics—information that can empower you for future projects.
  • Personal Satisfaction: Completing a project yourself brings a sense of accomplishment. You can take pride in knowing that you have contributed positively to the environment.
  • Flexibility: You can work at your own pace and on your own schedule, allowing for a stress-free experience.
Service Cost DIY Cost Savings
Professional Installation $300 – $1,000 $100 – $300 Up to 70%

Materials and Tools Needed

Before you embark on your eco bio plastics project, having the right materials and tools is crucial. Below is a complete list of what you will need:

  • Eco Bio Plastic Resin: This is the core material you will be working with. Look for brands like NatureWorks Ingeo or Bio-Blend. Expect to pay around $30 to $50 per pound.
  • Molds: Depending on your project, you may require specific molds. Silicone molds are versatile and can be found for around $10 to $20.
  • Mixing Tools: A set of mixing cups and stirrers is essential for preparing your resin. You can purchase a set for about $10.
  • Protective Gear: Safety gloves, goggles, and a mask are critical for protection. Investing around $20 ensures your safety while working.
  • Heat Source: A heat gun or a small torch can be helpful for curing. You can find one for about $30.
  • Measuring Scale: A precise scale will help you measure your resin accurately. A good scale costs around $25.
  • Pigments or Dyes: If you want to add color to your eco bio plastics, budget around $10 for various pigments.

What You DON’T Need

Don’t worry if you don’t have high-end equipment or a workshop. Most tools can be found at your local craft store or online, and many beginners start with basic supplies. Remember, the focus is on creating something sustainable, not perfection.

Preparation and Safety

Before diving into your eco bio plastics project, preparation is key. Here’s how you can set yourself up for success:

First of all, ensure your workspace is clean and organized. A clutter-free environment will help you focus and minimize accidents. Here are some tips to prepare your area:

  • Choose a well-ventilated space. If possible, work outdoors or in a garage with open windows.
  • Lay down a protective covering on your work surface to catch any spills.
  • Gather all your materials and tools beforehand, so you won’t have to stop midway through the project.

Fundamental Safety Rules

  • Always wear protective gear when handling materials.
  • Read all labels and safety data sheets for the products you’re using.
  • If you’re unsure about a step, take a moment to research or consult with someone experienced.

Ultra-Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

This is the heart of your DIY eco bio plastics project. Follow these steps closely to ensure a successful outcome:

  1. Step 1: Research and Design Your Project

    Begin by deciding what you want to create using eco bio plastics—be it utensils, decorative items, or even furniture. Sketch your design and make a list of the required materials. You know you’ve done it right when you have a clear vision of the final product. Time: 1 hour. Tip: If it’s your first time, start with a simple item.

  2. Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace

    Clean and organize your work area, ensuring you have good ventilation. Lay down a protective covering. You know you’ve done it right when everything is tidy and ready to go. Time: 30 minutes. Tip: Create a checklist for your materials.

  3. Step 3: Gather Your Materials

    Collect all items from your materials list. Ensure you have everything within arm’s reach. This will make the mixing and pouring process much smoother. Time: 15 minutes. Tip: Double-check to avoid running back and forth.

  4. Step 4: Measure and Mix the Resin

    Using your scale, accurately measure out the required amount of eco bio plastic resin. Mix it in your cup using a stirrer until fully combined. You know you’ve done it right when there are no clumps. Time: 30 minutes. Warning: Do not leave uncured resin exposed for too long.

  5. Step 5: Add Pigments

    If you’re adding color, introduce your pigments into the resin mixture. Stir well to ensure even distribution. You know you’ve done it right when the color is uniform. Time: 15 minutes. Tip: Start with a small amount of pigment; you can always add more!

  6. Step 6: Pour Into Molds

    Carefully pour the mixed resin into your pre-prepared molds. Fill them to the desired level, ensuring no air bubbles form. You know you’ve done it right when the molds are evenly filled. Time: 20 minutes. Warning: Avoid overfilling; it can lead to messy spills.

  7. Step 7: Apply Heat (if necessary)

    If your project requires curing with heat, use your heat gun or torch carefully over the surface of the molds. This helps to eliminate air bubbles and ensures a smooth finish. You know you’ve done it right when bubbles pop and the surface becomes glossy. Time: 10 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat source moving to avoid scorching.

  8. Step 8: Let it Cure

    Allow your molded items to cure according to the instructions on the resin packaging. Typically, this takes 24 hours, but it can vary based on the product. You know you’ve done it right when the resin hardens completely. Time: 24 hours. Tip: Don’t rush this step; proper curing is crucial.

  9. Step 9: Demold Your Creations

    Carefully remove your cured items from the molds. If they stick, gently flex the mold to release the item. You know you’ve done it right when they come out smoothly without damage. Time: 30 minutes. Warning: Be gentle; they might be delicate at first.

  10. Step 10: Finish and Polish

    If desired, you can sand the edges or apply a finish to enhance the look of your eco bio plastics. Use fine-grit sandpaper for a polished appearance. You know you’ve done it right when the surface feels smooth to the touch. Time: 1 hour. Tip: Take your time to achieve the best finish.

  11. Step 11: Clean Up

    Dispose of any waste materials responsibly and clean your workspace thoroughly. You know you’ve done it right when everything is tidy and ready for your next project. Time: 30 minutes. Tip: Always recycle any leftover materials when possible.

Common Problems During Execution and Solutions

Even the best-laid plans can hit snags. Here are some common issues you might face and how to solve them:

Problem 1: Bubbles in Resin

Cause: Air gets trapped during mixing or pouring. Solution: Use a heat gun to gently warm the surface after pouring; this will help bubbles rise and pop. If you notice bubbles forming, gently wave the heat source over them. You can also stir more slowly next time to minimize air incorporation.

Problem 2: Resin Not Curing Properly

Cause: Incorrect mixing ratios or insufficient curing time. Solution: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure you measure accurately. If your item is still soft after the recommended curing time, it may need additional time or may be beyond saving. Plan for a full day of curing.

Problem 3: Sticking to Molds

Cause: Inadequate mold release or resin adhesion. Solution: Use a mold release agent before pouring resin next time. If you encounter this issue, try gently flexing the mold. If that doesn’t work, you can place it in the freezer for a short time; this can help the resin contract slightly and release more easily.

Problem 4: Uneven Surface Finish

Cause: Uneven pouring or insufficient stirring. Solution: For a smooth finish, ensure even pouring and thorough mixing. If you’ve already poured and the surface is uneven, you can sand it down once cured and apply a finishing spray or polish.

Problem 5: Color Not as Expected

Cause: Overestimating pigment amounts or color mixing mistakes. Solution: Start with a small amount of pigment and gradually add until you achieve the desired shade. If the item is cured and the color is not what you hoped, consider painting it with eco-friendly paint.

Errors to Absolutely Avoid

To ensure your DIY journey is a success, be mindful of these common mistakes:

  • Not Reading Instructions: Always thoroughly read the instructions provided with your resin—failure to follow them can lead to disastrous results.
  • Skipping Safety Gear: Never skip wearing protective gear. It’s essential for your safety!
  • Mixing Too Quickly: Rapid stirring can introduce unwanted air bubbles. Mix slowly and carefully for a smooth mixture.
  • Ignoring Ventilation: Working in a poorly ventilated space can expose you to harmful fumes.
  • Rushing the Curing Time: Patience is key! Rushing can result in improperly cured products that may not hold up.
  • Using Contaminated Tools: Always ensure your tools are clean to avoid compromising your mix.

Professional Tricks and Secrets

Here are some industry tricks that can elevate your eco bio plastics project:

  • Use a Vacuum Chamber: If you’re serious about reducing bubbles, consider investing in a vacuum chamber for your resin. It removes air before mixing.
  • Experiment with Layering: For a unique look, pour your resin in layers, allowing each layer to cure before adding the next.
  • Use Alcohol Inks: For vibrant colors, replace pigments with alcohol inks. They mix easily and offer rich hues.
  • Temperature Matters: Warmer temperatures can speed up curing times, but don’t exceed recommended limits!
  • Keep a Log: Keep notes on your projects—what went right, what went wrong, and what you’d like to change next time.

Guide by Experience Level

For Those Who Have Never Done This

If you are a complete beginner, take a deep breath—you can absolutely do this! Start with small projects, such as coasters or simple decorations. Each small success will build your confidence. Make sure you refer to the detailed steps provided. Don’t hesitate to reach out to online communities for support; thousands of people have been where you are now.

For Those with Some Experience

If you already have some familiarity with DIY projects, consider challenging yourself with more complex designs or larger items. Try combining different colors and textures, or experiment with various mold shapes. You can also dive deeper into sustainable practices or even teach others what you’ve learned.

Maintenance and Longevity

Once you’ve completed your eco bio plastics project, maintaining it is essential for longevity:

  • Clean your items with gentle soap and water; avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the material.
  • Store your products in a cool, dry location to prevent warping or damage.
  • Inspect items regularly for signs of wear or damage—this will help you address any issues promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Schema)

What are eco bio plastics?

Eco bio plastics are biodegradable plastics made from renewable sources such as corn starch, sugarcane, or other natural materials. They offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.

How long does it take for eco bio plastics to decompose?

Depending on the conditions, eco bio plastics can take anywhere from a few months to several years to decompose, significantly less time than conventional plastics.

Can I recycle eco bio plastics?

Many eco bio plastics can be composted rather than recycled. Always check with local waste management facilities for specific guidelines.

Are eco bio plastics safe for food use?

Many eco bio plastics are safe for food contact, but it’s crucial to check the product specifications to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Do I need special tools to work with eco bio plastics?

Basic tools like mixing cups, stirrers, molds, and safety gear are sufficient to start with eco bio plastics. You don’t need a workshop full of specialized equipment.

Can I paint or decorate eco bio plastics?

Yes! Once cured, eco bio plastics can be painted with eco-friendly paints or decorated with various techniques for personalization.

What should I do if my resin doesn’t cure?

If your resin hasn’t cured, check your mixing ratios and ensure you followed all instructions. If it remains uncured, it may not be salvageable, and you’ll need to start over.

Can I use molds I already have at home?

Yes, you can use any mold that is compatible with resin, such as silicone molds from baking or crafting. Just ensure they are clean and dry before use.

Conclusion with Urgency and CTA

Don’t let the frustration of plastic waste overwhelm you any longer. By taking action now, you can start making a difference in your life and the planet. Every day you wait is another day that plastic continues to harm our environment. With this complete guide, you have everything you need to begin your journey into eco bio plastics in Midland.

Imagine the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and sustainable. It’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into this rewarding project. If you follow these steps in order, the result is guaranteed. Let’s make a positive impact together—start your eco bio plastics project today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What tools are essential for Eco bio plastics midland?

Essential tools depend on the specific type of work. In general, you will need basic tools like screwdrivers, pliers, a tape measure, and a level. For specialized work, you may need specific equipment that you can rent.

Can I do Eco bio plastics midland myself without experience?

Yes, many jobs are within reach of those without specific experience, as long as you carefully follow instructions and do not rush. Always start with simpler jobs to build confidence before tackling more complex work.

How much does Eco bio plastics midland cost to do yourself vs hiring a professional?

Doing it yourself can save 40 to 70% compared to hiring a professional, considering labor costs only. However, you need to account for the cost of materials and tools, plus the time spent.

What are the most common mistakes with Eco bio plastics midland?

The most common mistakes are: not preparing adequately, using wrong materials, skipping important steps, and not respecting drying or setting times. Reading instructions carefully before starting drastically reduces these risks.

Fighting the plastic plague in our oceans Updated for 2026

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Over five trillion pieces of waste plastic are floating in our oceans, weighing 268,940 tonnes and causing damage throughout the marine food chain, according to data collected by a team of scientists from the United States, France, Chile, Australia and New Zealand.

The team went on 24 expeditions between 2007 and 2013 that surveyed all five sub-tropical gyres: North Pacific, North Atlantic, South Pacific, South Atlantic and Indian Ocean, and extensive coastal regions and enclosed seas including the Bay of Bengal, Australian coasts and the Mediterranean Sea.

Their work included both surface net tows and visual transects for large plastic debris at 1,571 locations in all oceans. This is the most comprehensive survey to-dat – yet it is most likely a gross under-estimate of the scale of oceanic plastic pollution.

In 2012, the world produced 280 tonnes of plastic. Less than half has been consigned to landfill or recycled, and much of the remaining 150 million tonnes not still in use litters continental shelves and oceans.

Global trends suggest that waste plastics are accumulating exponentially in parallel with trends in plastic production – which has increased 560-fold in just over 60 years.

These by-products of the oil industry are icons of the industrial economy built on the over-exploitation of oil and other fossil fuels that’s turning the planet literally into a terminal wasteland (see Redemption from the Plastics Wasteland).

Waste plastic an escalating environmental hazard

The estimate from the global survey of plastic pollution on the sea surface for all fragment size classes combined is only 0.1% of the world annual production.

The estimates are “highly conservative”, the team acknowledged: they do not account for the potentially massive amounts of plastic washed up on shorelines, submerged on the seabed, suspended in the water column, and inside organisms.

Also, the survey only collected particles larger than 0.33 mm, due to the size of the netting used. Sequestration in the sediment is the likely fate of plastic pollutants after perpetrating numerous impacts on organisms along the way.

Waste plastic in the open ocean is degraded into smaller and smaller fragments through UV radiation, mechanical abrasion, biological degradation, and disintegration. The fragments disperse in the ocean, converging in the subtropical gyres. Generation and accumulation of plastic pollution also occur in closed bays, gulfs and seas surrounded by densely populated coastlines and watersheds.

The impacts through ingestion and entanglement of marine organisms ranging from zooplankton to whales, seabirds and reptiles are well documented, and new studies are showing up harmful effects of nano-size plastic particles that have escaped inventories so far (see Plastic Poisons in the Food Chain).

The data from the global survey showed that during fragmentation plastics are lost from the sea surface [2]. There is a 100-fold discrepancy between the expected microplastics (particles < 4.75 mm) weight and abundance and the actual amounts observed, indicating a tremendous loss of microplastics.

This suggests removal processes are operating, including UV degradation, biodegradation (by microorganisms), ingestion / absorption by organisms, decreased buoyancy due to fouling organisms, entrapment in settled detritus, and beaching.

Fragmentation rates of already brittle microplastics may be very high, breaking them down into ever smaller submicron or nanoparticles, and unrecoverable by the nets.

Numerous studies demonstrate that many more organisms ingest small plastic particles than previously thought, either directly or indirectly via their prey organisms. These are then packaged into faecal pellets which sink to the bottom. Further, there is evidence that some microbes can degrade microplastics.

Plastics at sea the cause of ecological havoc

A team of scientists led by Chelsea Rochman at University of California Davis and Mark Anthony Browne at University of California Santa Barbara in the United States wrote a Commentary in the journal Nature in 2013 calling for the need to classify plastics hazardous waste.

They point out that plastic debris can physically harm wildlife. Many plastics may be chemically harmful either because they are themselves potentially toxic or because they absorb other pollutants.

Waste plastics can kill or damage ecologically and commercially important species including mussels, sea-marsh grasses and corals. Mammals, reptiles and birds can be harmed through ingesting plastic or becoming entangled in it.

In 2012, the secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Montreal Canada reported that all sea turtle species, 45% of marine mammal species and 21% of seabird species can be harmed in that way.

Yet in the US, Europe, Australia and Japan, plastics are classified as regular ‘solid waste’ and treated like food scraps or grass clippings. Policies for managing plastic debris are outdated and severely threaten the health of wildlife.

As plastic breaks into smaller pieces, it is more likely to infiltrate food webs. In lab and field studies, fish, invertebrates and microorganisms ingest micrometre sized or smaller particles, which also come from synthetic (polyester or acrylic) clothing and cleaning products containing plastics.

Studies in humans and mussels have found that ingested and inhaled microplastics get into cells and tissues where they can cause harm. In patients who have had their knee or hip joints replaced with plastic implants, such particles can disrupt cellular processes and degrade tissues.

Toxicities of plastics

Plastics are made up of repeating units or monomers that join up to form long chains or polymers. These chains are thought to be generally inert – yet unreacted monomers and other harmful ingredients can be found in plastics.

According to United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, the chemical ingredients of more than 50% of plastics are hazardous. Studies investigating the transfer of additives in polyvinylchloride (PVC) from medical supplies to humans indicate that these chemicals can accumulate in the blood.

In lab tests, monomers and other ingredients of PVC polystyrene, polyurethane and polycarbonate can be carcinogenic and can affect organisms in similar way to the hormone oestrogen.

The monomers making up some plastics such as polyethylene (used for carrier bags) was thought to be more benign. Yet these materials can still become toxic by picking up other pollutants. Pesticides and organic pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls are consistently found on plastic wastes at harmful concentrations 100 times higher than those found in sediments, and 1 million times those occurring in sea water.

Many of these are ‘priority pollutants’ – chemicals regulated by government agencies, including US Environment Protection Agency (EPA) because of their toxicity or persistence in organisms and food webs. These chemicals can disrupt processes such as cell division and immunity, causing disease or reducing the organisms’ ability to escape from predators or reproduce.

In an unpublished analysis, the authors found that at least 78% of priority pollutants listed by the EPA and 61% listed by the EU are associated with plastic debris. Seabirds that have ingested plastic waste have polychlorinated biphenyls in their tissues at 300% greater than those that have not eaten the plastic.

Classify the most harmful plastics as hazardous!

Governments have struggled for decades to reduce plastic debris. The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) was signed in 1973, although a complete ban on the disposal of plastics at sea was not enacted until the end of 1988.

Despite 134 nations agreeing to eliminate plastics disposal at sea, ocean sampling suggests that the problem has persisted or worsened since MARPOL was signed.

The scientists wrote: “We feel that the physical dangers of plastic debris are well enough established, and the suggestions of the chemical dangers sufficiently worrying, that the biggest producers of plastic waste – the United States, Europe and China – must act now.

“These countries should agree to classify as hazardous the most harmful plastics, including those that cannot be reused or recycled because they lack durability or contain mixtures of materials that cannot be separated.”

Focusing on the most hazardous plastics is a realistic first step. Currently, just four plastics – PVC, polystyrene, polyurethane and polycarbonate – make up roughly 30% of production. These are made of potentially toxic materials and difficult to recycle.

PVC is used in construction, such as pipes that carry drinking water. Polystyrene is used for food packaging; polyurethane in furniture; and polycarbonate in electronics. Health-care and technology industries are already replacing PVC components in intravenous-drip bags and in computers with materials that are safer, more durable and recyclable, such as polypropylene and aluminium.

With the proposed change in plastics classification, many affected habitats could immediately be cleaned up under national legislation with government funds.

In the United States, for instance, the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 would enable the EPA to clear the vast accumulations of plastics that litter the terrestrial, freshwater and marine habitats under US jurisdiction.

Ultimately, the scientists want changes in regulation to drive the development of a closed-loop system in which all plastics are reused and recycled, instead of ending up in landfills where chemicals leach from the plastic into surrounding habitats.

“If current consumption rates continue, the planet will hold another 33 billion tonnes of plastic by 2050. This would fill 2.75 billion refuse-collection trucks, which would wrap around the planet roughly 800 times if placed end to end”, the scientists wrote.

“We estimate that this could be reduced to just 4 billion tonnes if the most problematic plastics are classified as hazardous immediately and replaced with safer, reusable materials in the next decade.”

 

 

Dr Mae Wan Ho is the director of the Institute of Science in Society (ISIS), which campaigns against unethical uses of biotechnology.

Action: Beat the Microbead!

This article was originally published by ISIS. A fully referenced version of this article is posted on ISIS members website and otherwise available for download here

Author’s note: Please circulate widely and repost, but you must give the URL of the original and preserve all the links back to articles on our website. If you find this report useful, please support ISIS by subscribing to our magazine Science in Society, and encourage your friends to do so. Or have a look at the ISIS bookstore for other publications. Meanwhile, a solution to cleaning up existing waste and a route of recycling may be turning Waste Plastics into Fuel Oil?

 




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Over 268,000 tonnes of ocean plastic – neglect it at our peril Updated for 2026

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There are at least 268,000 tonnes of plastic floating around in the oceans, according to new research by a global team of scientists.

The world generates 288m tonnes of plastic worldwide each year – just a little more than the annual vegetable crop – yet using current methods only 0.1% of it is found at sea.

The new research illustrates as much as anything, how little we know about the fate of plastic waste in the ocean once we have thrown it ‘away’.

Where does it go? Into the food chain …

Most obviously, this discarded plastic exists as the unsightly debris we see washed ashore on our beaches.

These large chunks of plastic are bad news for sea creatures which aren’t used to them. Turtles, for instance, consume plastic bags, mistaking them for jellyfish.

In Hawaii’s outer islands the Laysan albatross feeds material skimmed from the sea surface to its chicks. Although adults can regurgitate ingested plastic, their chicks cannot. Young albatrosses are often found dead with stomachs full of bottle tops, lighters and other plastic debris, having starved to death.

But these big, visible impacts may just be the tip of the iceberg. Smaller plastic chunks less than 2.5mm across – broken down bits of larger debris – are ubiquitous in zooplankton samples from the eastern Pacific.

In some regions of the central Pacific there is now six times as much plankton-sized plastic are there is plankton. Plankton-eating birds, fish and whales have a tough time telling the two apart, often mistaking this plastic – especially tan coloured particles – for krill.

The smaller the pieces, the worse they get

However, even this doesn’t quite tell the whole story. For technical reasons Eriksen and his team weren’t able to consider the very smallest particles – but these may be the most harmful of all.

We’re talking here about tiny lumps of 0.5mm across or considerably less, usually invisible to the naked eye, which often originate in cosmetics or drugs containing nanoparticles or microbeads.

Such nanoparticles matter as they are similar size to the smallest forms of plankton (pico and nano plankton) which are the most abundant plankton group and biggest contributors in terms of biomass and contribution to primary production. There’s a lot going on when you zoom right in.

We don’t yet know precisely how plastic nanoparticles interact with marine fauna but we do know that they can be absorbed at the level of individual cells.

And what’s worse is they’re very efficient carriers of organic molecules such as estradiol, the drug used for birth control and IVF that finds it way through our sewage system into the sea.

Indeed, this efficiency is one of the reasons nanoparticles are being explored for drug delivery – they’re a great way to get the right medicine absorbed into the right cells.

Therefore it isn’t just the plastic itself that should concern us. We need to look at what it’s carrying, as substances clinging to nanoparticles of plastic could badly damage marine ecosystems.

A problem we neglect at our peril

Nasty endocrine disrupting chemicals can be concentrated a million times more than background levels on the surfaces of plastic particles. These can then be ingested by organisms and the chemicals absorbed leading to disruption of the reproductive process – some species such as bivalve mussels have even seen males turned into females.

Floating chunks of plastic can also be colonised by organisms including potential bacterial pathogens such as cholera, and marine insect sea skaters which need a hard surface to lay their eggs on – plastic in the sea increases their numbers and range.

The fact that floating plastic debris is novel and persists for longer than most natural flotsam could make them ideal vehicles for the introduction of invasive species with potentially devastating consequences.

Plastic pollution of the marine environment is the Cinderella of global issues, garnering less attention than its ugly sisters climate change, acidification, fisheries, invasive species or food waste but it has links to them all and merits greater attention by the scientific community.

 

 

Magnus Johnson is Senior Lecturer Environmental Marine Biology at the University of Hull.

Melanie Coull is a PhD researcher in Environmental Marine Biology at the University of Hull.

This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article.

The Conversation

 




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