12. Plastics Leakage into the Environment

The chapter delves into the critical issue of plastic waste leakage into the environment, with a particular focus on marine litter. It explores the global challenge posed by plastic waste, highlighting the vast volumes entering the environment and their negative ecological impact. The text discusses the need for a circular plastics economy, where plastic waste is collected and reintroduced as a resource. Special attention is given to the problem of marine litter, summarizing the causes, ecological consequences, and current measures to combat it. The chapter also emphasizes the distinction between microplastics and larger plastics, stressing the need for further research on the effects of microplastics. Additionally, it provides an overview of plastic pollution in Europe, using data from Germany as an example. The text concludes with a discussion on the economic and health impacts of marine litter, as well as the need for further research in this area. Professionals will gain a comprehensive understanding of the global plastic waste problem, its environmental impact, and the measures being taken to address it.