Plastic Pollution in the Ocean

The hon. Member highlighted the serious issue of plastic pollution in oceans, citing statistics such as 12 million tonnes of plastic entering the oceans annually and the impact on marine life. She called for government action to ban plastic in wet wipes and criticised the current lack of progress despite cross-party agreement.

The hon. Member is grateful to the lead member for initiating the debate and mentions that according to the World Wildlife Fund, approximately 8 million tonnes of plastic are dumped into the ocean annually. He advocates for toughening product standards to increase recyclable plastics and providing consumers with information on recyclability.

Jo Gideon highlighted the staggering scale of plastic pollution, noting that over 350 million tonnes of plastic are produced annually. She stressed the urgency to address the issue as only 9% of plastics have been recycled adequately. Gideon also mentioned the detrimental effects on marine life and human health, including ingestion of chemicals like BPA from packaging, which can lead to ingesting up to 5 grams of plastic per week. She called for consistent recycling rules and a shift towards reduction and reuse.

Plastic's durability has led to devastating environmental impacts, including nurdle pollution and the creation of ocean 'deserts'. Plastic production was nearly 460 megatonnes in 2019 and is expected to grow by 267% by 2060. The plastic waste emitted annually to the hydrosphere is predicted to increase from 6.1 megatonnes to 11.6 megatonnes. Plastic harms marine ecosystems, impacts human health through microplastics in food systems, affects economies and potentially reduces oceans' ability to store carbon. John McNally praised initiatives like The Ocean Cleanup for their work on scientific research and clean-up projects.

The hon. Member congratulates the lead member on securing the debate, discussing microplastics' threat to marine ecosystems, especially from fishing net pollution affecting sharks, seabirds, and seals. She also notes the issue of tiny microfibres entering the sea due to washing clothes and mentions a company using 3D printing technology to create filters for washing machines. Traces of microplastics have even been found in the placentas of pregnant women and in human blood. The risks of microplastics for human health cannot be ignored any longer. We must end the plastic pollution of our water for our own health, as well as for the environment. Called for the UK to support a UN global plastic treaty that offers workers in the plastics supply chain opportunities for sustainable job transitions, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and recognizing indigenous people's interests. Inquired about the opportunity for driving environmental change through trade with Malaysia after its accession to a comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-pacific partnership bloc.

According to Recycle Track Systems, there is an estimated 75 to 199 million tons of plastic waste in the oceans with a further 33 billion pounds entering annually. Fishing equipment accounts for 20% of marine plastic waste which will coat the entire planet in just 65 years if current rates continue. Plastic pollution harms animal health and impacts ecosystems, particularly in developing countries.

Discussed local initiatives like Plastic Free Seaton, the impact of cigarette butts as a major source of plastic pollution, and called for an end to non-essential single-use plastics by 2025. Mentioned the need for an independent advisory committee on plastics pollution and an end to plastic exports. Asked if the Government's actions include addressing cigarette butts, which contribute to ocean pollution. He inquired about specific measures taken by the government to reduce this type of waste.