The Plastisphere in Six Steps
Plastisphere.org explains the living world growing on plastic pollution, and what it means for oceans and people.
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The communities of microbes and small organisms that live on plastic debris, especially in the ocean.
Plastisphere
Within days, floating plastic is coated by a thin living film of bacteria, algae and other microbes.
Biofilm
Plastic can carry these communities, and sometimes invasive or harmful species, across long distances.
Ecosystem
Plastic breaks into tiny pieces that are now found in water, soil, food and the human body.
Microplastic
Scientists are studying microbes that can break down some plastics. It is promising and far from a fix.
Biodegradation
Using less single-use plastic and supporting better recycling and cleanup reduce the problem at its source.
Reduce
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