CSIRO has developed protocols, analytical tools, and has carried out coastal, terrestrial and ocean-based surveys for anthropogenic debris in Australia at a national scale and in several other countries. The goal of this work is to use field sampling and mathematical modelling to document the distribution of plastic in the ocean, on the coast and in the nearshore environment generated by 6-8 major urban centers and surrounding areas that have been identified as having significant waste mis-management or losses into the marine environment. This will allow for empirical validation of waste losses as projected by a recent global estimate of plastic losses into the worlds oceans (Jambeck et al. 2015). This project builds capacity in developing countries, provides an empirical baseline for waste mismanagement, increases awareness, inspires change and transforms the global conversation around plastic usage and the environment. Innovative opportunities for waste management will be identified and potentially trialed and valuing plastics can help reduce poverty and identify alternative livelihoods. The results of the study will provide a solid empirical basis for modelling the input of plastic into the oceans from land at the global scale. The results will also serve as an international baseline against which progress can be gauged through time and space. The data will also provide opportunities to identify opportunities to engage with industry regarding best-practices and product identification for major brands which are frequently lost into the environment
Progress reports
By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, in particular from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution
By 2020, sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse impacts, including by strengthening their resilience, and take action for their restoration in order to achieve healthy and productive oceans
Increase scientific knowledge, develop research capacity and transfer marine technology, taking into account the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission Criteria and Guidelines on the Transfer of Marine Technology, in order to improve ocean health and to enhance the contribution of marine biodiversity to the development of developing countries, in particular small island developing States and least developed countries
Enhance the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources by implementing international law as reflected in UNCLOS, which provides the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of oceans and their resources, as recalled in paragraph 158 of The Future We Want
December 2020
