State of marine microplastic pollution research and the limitations

doi:10.3969/j.issn.1000-5641.2019.03.019

Abstract

Abstract: Microplastics (less than 5 mm in diameter) are ubiquitously distributed throughout the world's oceans. Marine microplastic pollution has become a global research hotspot and a new frontier in ecological and environmental sciences. The issue has increasingly attracted the attention of scientists, government agencies, and NGOs worldwide. Although the problem of marine plastic pollution was first discovered in the 1970s, it didn't gain attention in the international arena until recent years. Since then, microplastic research has progressed rapidly both globally and in China. However, there are still many problems with the research and response to marine microplastics, requiring further clarification and solutions. This paper first briefly reviews the chronological development of marine microplastic research as well as the role and significance of key events. Thereafter, the paper discusses the state of marine microplastic pollution research and the mitigation efforts in China and abroad, highlighting the current limitations in the research and response to marine plastic and microplastic pollution.

Key words: microplastics, marine pollution, marine environment, development state

CLC Number:

LI Dao-ji, Zhu Li-xin, CHANG Si-yuan, ZHANG Feng, WANG Lu. State of marine microplastic pollution research and the limitations[J]. Journal of East China Normal University(Natural Sc, 2019, 2019(3): 174-185.

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