PERSISTENT MARINE DEBRIS, PART 1: THE THREAT

In this first part of a two-part article on the problem of persistent marine debris, particularly plastics, the nature of the debris is first explained. Its sources are then identified as being merchant, military and research vessels; commercial fishing vessels; recreational vessels; and offshore oil platforms and supply vessels. The threat posed by the debris to marine mammals, birds, sea turtles, fish and shellfish is then explored. Finally, the threat to humans is briefly discussed as taking three forms: the potential entanglement of skin and scuba divers, the disabling of boats and ships, and the endangerment of public health when contaminated materials such as medical wastes are involved.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/issn/00253367
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Journal article
• Authors:
  • Cottingham, D
• Publication Date: 1989

Media Info

• Pagination: 7 p.
• Serial:
  • Mariners Weather Log
  • Volume: 33
  • Issue Number: No.3
  • ISSN: 0025-3367

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Environmental impacts; Health hazards; Oceans; Plastics; Waste disposal
• Subject Areas: Environment; Marine Transportation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00658268
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Maritime Technical Information Facility
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 21 1994 12:00AM