22 Europe

What is Plastic Pellets ? how it relates to Europe's Environmental ?

1. What are plastic pellets also known as?
   Plastic pellets are also known as nurdles or mermaid’s tears.

2. What is the main use of plastic pellets?
   Plastic pellets are used to manufacture virtually all plastic products.

3. How do plastic pellets impact the environment?
   Plastic pellets are a significant source of microplastic pollution, affecting ecosystems and wildlife.

4. What is the estimated amount of plastic pellets leaking into Europe’s environment each year?
   An estimated 184,000 tonnes of plastic pellets leak into Europe’s environment annually.

5. How do plastic pellets affect aquatic organisms?
   Plastic pellets can affect the reproduction, growth, and survival of various aquatic organisms, including zooplankton, crustaceans, and fish.

6. What species of bird was studied in relation to plastic pellet ingestion?
   The fulmar, a species of seabird, was studied for plastic pellet ingestion.

7. What percentage of fulmars in the North Sea had ingested plastic?
   92% of fulmars in the North Sea had ingested plastic, including pellets.

8. On average, how many plastic particles did each fulmar have in its stomach?
   On average, each fulmar had 21 plastic particles in its stomach.

9. What other harm can plastic pellets cause besides physical harm?
   Plastic pellets can also cause toxicological harm by absorbing and releasing toxic chemicals.

10. What is the role of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in addressing plastic pellet pollution?
    The IMO recommended specific obligations for sea-going vessels transporting plastic pellets to prevent pollution.

11. What is the current status of EU legislation on plastic pellet pollution?
    The EU is finalizing legislation proposed in 2023, which includes obligations for vessels transporting plastic pellets.

12. What focus does the EU legislation currently have regarding maritime pollution?
    The legislation currently focuses on preventive measures such as packaging and stowage for maritime actors.

13. What additional provisions should policymakers consider in the final stages of the legislation?
    Policymakers should consider adding mandatory provisions for reporting, third-party certification, risk management plans, and containment and cleanup requirements.

14. Why is it important to have a consistent framework of obligations for all involved in plastic pellet transport?
    A consistent framework ensures that all actors involved in plastic pellet transport adhere to regulations, reducing environmental pollution.

15. Why have policymakers often overlooked the threat of microplastic pollution?
    Despite mounting evidence of harm, microplastic pollution has been overlooked due to a lack of focused attention and action from policymakers.

 

 

 

 

 

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