Plastics in Deep Water

Microplastics have been found at depths of 11,000 meters, far beyond where sunlight penetrates. Blue Ocean News investigates how deep-sea organisms ingest these particles and the long-term implications for marine ecosystems.

Researchers from the Oceanographic Institute collected samples from the Mariana Trench, revealing concentrations that shocked even seasoned scientists. The findings suggest that plastic pollution knows no depth limit, infiltrating the most remote marine habitats.

Local fishing communities report seeing plastics in their catches, raising concerns about food safety and the economic impact on coastal livelihoods. This investigation follows the journey of a single plastic bottle from surface waters to the abyssal plain.