gesamp 37 – agenda item 7.2/2
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GESAMP 37 – agenda item 7.2/2 Correspondence group on micro-plastics as a vector in transporting persistent, bioaccumulating and toxic substances in the marine environment. Why is this justified? -- microplastics are widespread - PowerPoint PPT PresentationTRANSCRIPT
GESAMP 37 – agenda item 7.2/2
Correspondence group on micro-plastics as a vector in transporting persistent,
bioaccumulating and toxic substances in the marine environment
Why is this justified?
-- microplastics are widespread
-- composition and size highly variable (primary & secondary types)
-- they can be ingested by biota
-- they absorb PBTs
-- they are very persistent
-- overall environmental impact is unknown
-- relevance to developing policy unclear
Primary & secondary microplastic particles
http://www.tuat.ac.jp
-- feedstock for plastics industry
-- abrasives
http://www.new-mag.com/events/081014_lavignes/pdf/Narhinen_NEW4.pdf
Debris necklace
Browne et al., 2007
shoreline
CPR
Tamar Estuary
Microplastics in coastal and oceanic waters
NE Atlantic
http://www.tuat.ac.jp
International Pellet Watch
Proposed overall objective:
To undertake a scientific review of the occurrence and potential impact of microplastics and associated PBTs in the marine environment,
Actions:
Organise a workshop to be hosted by UNESCO-IOC in Paris (provisional date – last week of June 2010)
- Review current knowledge - taking account of recent international initiatives (UNEP, IOC, NOAA, FAO)
- Develop terms of reference for a working group
Potential Terms of Reference
To include the following topics:
Sources & occurrence (database)
Type & size, chemical/physical properties – primary & secondary particles
Environmental behaviour: i) transport, ii) vector for PBTs
Toxicity – intrinsic & absorbed contaminants
Transfer to & metabolism in biota, incl. bioavailability & biomagnification
Analytical methods & data evaluation
Gaps in knowledge & recommendations for future research