From Pollution to Solution: a global assessment of marine litter and plastic pollution

Plastics are the largest, most harmful and most persistent fraction of marine litter, accounting for at least 85 per cent of total marine waste.

The assessment examines the magnitude and severity of marine litter and plastic pollution and reviews existing solutions and actions. The assessment demonstrates that there is a growing threat from marine litter and plastic pollution in all ecosystems from source to sea. It provides a comprehensive update on current research (and knowledge gaps) with respect to direct impacts on marine life, risks posed to ecosystems and human health, and social and economic costs.

Overall, the assessment, which is intended to inform evidence-based action at all levels, underscores the need for urgent, global action. It shows that while we have the know-how, we need the political will and urgent action to tackle this mounting crisis. The report will inform discussions at the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA 5.2) in 2022, where countries will come together to decide a way forward for global cooperation.

Further Resources:

• Towards a pollution-free planet: background report 
• Clean Seas 
• World Environment Situation Room (WESR)/Pollution 
• Resolution adopted by the United Nations Environment Assembly on 15 March 2019   
• Beat pollution 
• Forms of pollution 
• Marine and Coastal pollution 
• SDGs will address ‘three planetary crises’ harming life on Earth 
• Environment, health and pollution 
• Healthy planet, healthy people 
• For people and planet: the UNEP strategy for 2022–2025 
• SDG Policy Brief on Oceans: Marine Pollution