Easter Island Faces a Plastic Waste “Vortex”

According to a report from local authorities, the amount of plastic waste on Easter Island (Chile) is currently 50 times higher than other coastal regions of the country. The main reason is the island’s location within the South Pacific Gyre, which traps and accumulates marine debris from neighboring countries, washing it up on the shores of this small island.

Tons of plastic wash ashore daily, damaging the marine ecosystem and natural environment of the island. A significant portion of this plastic waste originates from Australia, South America, and fishing vessels operating in the Pacific Ocean.

Illustration. (Photo: unsplash.com)

Marine biologist Moiko Pakomio explains that the plastic waste is gradually breaking down into tiny microplastics. These microplastics not only harm beaches but also penetrate deep into the ecosystem, threatening the entire food chain.

Pedro Edmunds, mayor of Rapa Nui City, states that microplastics are polluting the ocean, affecting marine life, disrupting the ecological balance, and severely impacting the lives of Easter Island residents.

In response to the escalating plastic pollution crisis, Mayor Edmunds and the island’s inhabitants have launched a campaign to reduce global plastic usage. However, the mayor expressed concern that a significant portion of the plastic waste washing ashore originates from mainland Chile, accounting for 58% of the total.

Now more than ever, each of us can contribute to reducing ocean waste by:

• Limiting the use of single-use plastic products
• Prioritizing environmentally friendly products
• Developing and practicing proper waste sorting habits

While plastic may offer convenience in our lives, its consequences can last for hundreds or even thousands of years. Let’s start our green journey today by making small changes.

Source: Reuters.com