Scientific Research

Understanding Ocean Plastic Pollution

At Big Blue Ocean Cleanup, the data we collect plays a crucial role in helping businesses, governments, universities, and individuals tackle the growing issue of ocean pollution. Plastic debris in the environment is receiving increasing attention, and for good reason—plastic doesn’t biologically degrade. Instead, it breaks down into tiny particles known as microplastics.

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are small plastic particles ranging from 1μm to 5mm in size. These particles make their way into rivers, lakes, and eventually our oceans, creating a widespread environmental problem.

The Unknown Impact of Microplastics

While we know that microplastics are present throughout our oceans, their physical and chemical effects on living organisms are not yet fully understood. Ongoing research is crucial to understanding the potential harm they may cause to marine life and ecosystems.

Our Research Methods

We use specialised nets to sample microplastics and employ a tool for separating microplastic particles from sediment samples. Our method is based on density separation, allowing us to gather vital data on the presence of microplastics in various environments. This research helps build a clearer picture of the scale of plastic pollution and supports global efforts to mitigate its effects.