Marine Plastics: From Pollution to Solution

Written by Dr Nina Wootton from the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Adelaide

The problem with plastic

Plastic is everywhere. It’s in our homes, our workplaces, our oceans, and even in the food we eat. Once considered a groundbreaking material for its durability and versatility, plastic has become one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. Every year, we produce around 380 million metric tonnes of plastic, and a staggering amount of it ends up in the environment. Scientists estimate that 170 trillion plastic particles are floating on the ocean’s surface, while millions of tonnes sink to the seafloor. This pollution affects marine life at every level, from tiny plankton to whales and turtles.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, typically smaller than 5mm, that come from larger plastic debris breaking down or are intentionally manufactured for use in products like cosmetics, industrial abrasives, and synthetic fabrics. These particles are now found in every environment on earth, from deep-sea trenches to ice in Antarctica. Because of their small size, microplastics can be ingested by marine life, working their way up the food chain and potentially impacting human health.

My research on microplastics

As a marine scientist, I have spent years investigating how plastics enter the environment and how they impact marine ecosystems. My research focuses on understanding where microplastics accumulate, how they move through food chains, and their potential effects on marine life and human health.

In our research group in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of Adelaide we answer many questions about marine and coastal plastic and microplastics. From assessing plastics in the environment and seafood or investigating the chemicals that attach themselves to plastics in the water column to broad scale educational initiatives, and all things in-between.

We now know how much microplastic Australian seafood species are ingesting (don’t worry it is very low, particularly compared to global studies – if you want to see more you can read here and here), what community of organisms are living on microplastics in Australian waters (read more here), and how different chemicals are attaching to microplastics and potentially contaminating the edible components of seafood. We are learning more about where microplastics accumulate in mangroves and seagrass, how they enter the marine systems through outfalls, rivers and stormwater and where in the seafood supply chain they might be contaminating products that end up on your plate. We are even collaborating with a group of microplastic scientists to create a guide on how to sample microplastics in water, sediment, biota and air – so that future research on microplastic contamination is standardised.

Empowering educators

Understanding plastic pollution is essential for the next generation, and teachers play a crucial role in helping students grasp the scale of the issue and potential solutions. That’s why I am involved in projects that bring plastic research into classrooms. One initiative, Toys for Turtles, is a community-driven program in north-east Arnhem Land that works with Indigenous rangers, schools, and local communities to tackle marine debris. It focuses on recycling plastic waste into useful products while also teaching students about the cultural significance of sea turtles.

Educators from all over Australia can access free teaching resources from Toys for Turtles, which include lesson plans, hands-on activities, and information on marine plastic pollution. These resources help students understand where plastics come from, how they impact ecosystems, and what we can do to reduce waste. You can find these materials at https://www.toysforturtles.com/education-resources.

Moving towards solutions

The fight against plastic pollution isn’t just about research—it’s about action. By educating students, engaging communities, and working on real-world solutions, we can create lasting change.

Plastics are a great gateway into sustainability education because they are a visible and tangible issue that students can relate to. Unlike some environmental problems that feel overwhelming, plastic pollution is something students can actively tackle through simple changes like reducing single-use plastics, participating in clean-ups, or exploring recycling innovations. Once students start engaging with plastic solutions, they often become inspired to explore other areas of sustainability, from renewable energy to biodiversity conservation.

Teachers, students, and scientists all have a role to play in tackling this challenge. I encourage educators to explore these resources and bring the conversation into their classrooms. Together, we can move towards a future with less plastic and healthier oceans.