Rivers ultimately empty into the sea, but not without carrying a significant amount of garbage along the way. This garbage accumulates in the middle of the ocean, combining with debris from fishing vessels to form massive patches of polluted water that have wide-reaching effects despite being hidden from human sight.
Ocean Currents and Garbage Gyres
Ocean currents, influenced by various factors like surface winds, temperature, salinity gradients, and tides, play a crucial role in transporting materials in the ocean. These currents circulate warm water and precipitation from the equator to the poles and vice versa, creating circular patterns known as gyres. These gyres collect nonbiodegradable human-made materials, resulting in what is often described as a “plastic soup” in the ocean.
Impacts of Garbage Gyres
Marine debris, particularly in the form of garbage patches, poses severe threats to marine life and human health. Thousands of species, including sea birds, sea turtles, and marine mammals, fall victim to consuming or becoming entangled in debris. Microplastics, which make up the majority of the garbage patches by number of pieces, have also been found in human consumption items, raising concerns about long-term impacts on human health.
Locations of Garbage Patches
There are five key garbage patches around the world, with the Great Pacific Garbage Patch being the largest and most concerning due to its significant size and the types of waste it contains. The other patches are located in the South Pacific, the Indian Ocean, and the North and South Atlantic oceans.
Cleanup Efforts and Solutions
Efforts to clean up the garbage patches have been substantial, but the enormity of the problem means that significant and sustained global action is necessary. Preventing the further growth of the garbage patches by targeting specific entry points, such as the fishing industry and certain beaches, could be an effective strategy.
Taking Action
Individuals can contribute to protecting the oceans by reducing their use of plastic, recycling, and properly disposing of waste to prevent it from reaching the ocean. Choosing products made from recycled ocean plastic can also help repurpose plastic waste and prevent harm to ecosystems and wildlife.
Editor’s Note: Originally published on September 21, 2022, this article was updated in January 2024.
