Gothenburg, Sweden, October 24, 2022 /PR Newswire/ — Small pieces of plastic are widely distributed in the world’s oceans and are ingested by living organisms. Microplastics are found in zooplankton, fish, seabirds, whales, seals, and even humans. However, the long-term effects of this plastic pollution threat are still largely unknown. three scientists, Richard Thompson, Tamara GallowayWhen Penelope Lindekeis this year’s winner for groundbreaking research to understand the impact of microplastics on humans and the environment. Volvo Environmental Award.
With the help of the wind and ocean currents, microplastics are spreading all over the planet. Winners report them in the deep waters of the Arctic and snow on Mount Everest in the Himalayas. The definition of microplastics is that they are 5 millimeters or less in size. Some are so small that they can only be seen with a microscope. Even in the most remote areas of the world, microplastics are found as a result of the 360 ​​million tonnes of plastic waste annually that are used in packaging, cosmetics, car tires and many other items. Microplastics in the marine environment are now pervasive in the food chain, and intensive research is underway on their environmental impact and how to prevent the spread of plastic waste through changes in legislation, design, manufacturing and disposal. .
That may sound strange at a time when environmental concerns are so dominant and knowledge about the spread of microplastics is relatively new. Richard Thompson I started thinking about all the trash I saw on the beach. EnglandHe began mapping, systematizing, and digging deeper into the problem. His 2004 Science article, Lost at Sea: Where is all the plastic?, garnered worldwide attention and ultimately led to the establishment of an entirely new field of research. The three scientists collaborate extensively. today, Richard Thompson Leads the University’s International Marine Litter Unit plymouth. Tamara Gallowayprofessor of ecotoxicology and leads the university’s plastics research team Exeter When Penelope Lindek, Professor and Director of the Science of Marine Ecology and Biodiversity at the Plymouth Marine Institute. This trio’s research is considered world class.
The judges of the Volvo Environment Prize noted the extensive research collaboration carried out by the three scientists, stating, “This will help society recognize plastic pollution as an emerging global challenge and trigger policy action.” It was helpful toScientists are not yet sure whether microplastic consumption will harm marine life or human health. Tamara Gallowayuniversities in Exeter“For many organisms at the bottom of the ocean’s food web, ingestion of plastic prevents them from eating nutritious foods and has a knock-on effect on their growth rate.”
Removing microplastics from the ocean is very difficult.but professor Penelope Lindek The Plymouth Marine Institute is experimenting with nature-based solutions using mussels. They are natural filter feeders that ingest plastics along with their regular food and pass them into their faeces.
“We know from lab experiments that 5 kilograms of mussels can remove 250,000 pieces of plastic in an hour, which is absolutely incredible,” she says.Professor Richard ThompsonIt was the first to issue a warning about how microplastics are spreading into the world’s oceans.
“Plastic is a great material in many ways,” he says. “But we need to use them more responsibly. Today’s business model is based on the 1950s. Any linear model that makes it a permanent waste must be changed!”
For 33 years, the Volvo Environmental Prize has been awarded annually to those who have made outstanding scientific discoveries on sustainability. Three of her winners later won the Nobel Prize.The award is celebrated in November 29thof Gothenburgwith live streaming awards ceremonies and seminars.
For more information on the 2022 winners, awards, and how to join the webinar and awards ceremony, please visit: http://www.environment-prize.com/.
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