Why is plastic a problem for the sea?

Every year millions of tonnes of plastic end up in the seas and oceans around the world. A lot of waste gets into the sea through the big rivers. Fishermen also lose old nets in the sea.

In the Pacific Ocean there is a large area full of waste. The area is about three times larger than France. But it is not an island of rubbish. Most pieces are small and float under the water. Turtles and seabirds think that plastic is food. Many animals get sick or die from it.

The sun and the waves slowly break down the plastic. So very small pieces are formed: microplastics. Fish and mussels eat the microplastics. So it gets into our food too.

Since 2021 plastic straws have been banned in the European Union. Many countries want a new global treaty, but the talks are difficult. We all have to use much less plastic.