We have all been converted to the idea that plastics have very detrimental effects on life in our seas (choking turtles and micro-particles being ingested by plankton). A recent study carried out on 125000 corals in the Asia-Pacific region has, however, added to the concern by finding that, whilst only 4% of reefs in plastic free areas were diseased, the incidence of disease rose to 89% in plastic-contaminated locations (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/jan/25/billions-of-pieces-of-plastic-on-coral-reefs-send-disease-soaring-research-reveals). This suggests that plastics may entirely destroy major habitats on which many organisms depend. Perhaps politicians can be encouraged to get their act together more quickly than seems to be the case at present?
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Friday, 26 January 2018
Reefer
We have all been converted to the idea that plastics have very detrimental effects on life in our seas (choking turtles and micro-particles being ingested by plankton). A recent study carried out on 125000 corals in the Asia-Pacific region has, however, added to the concern by finding that, whilst only 4% of reefs in plastic free areas were diseased, the incidence of disease rose to 89% in plastic-contaminated locations (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/jan/25/billions-of-pieces-of-plastic-on-coral-reefs-send-disease-soaring-research-reveals). This suggests that plastics may entirely destroy major habitats on which many organisms depend. Perhaps politicians can be encouraged to get their act together more quickly than seems to be the case at present?
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