Taxpayer Cost of Ocean Plastic Pollution

How much does it cost Society for plastic pollution? The result is not pretty. Conservatively the estimate is $13 Billion USD yearly. In addition the latest research suggests that plastic is responsible for a 1 to 5% decline in the benefit humans derive from the oceans.

“Knowing this price can help us make informed decisions: recycling a tonne of plastic costs us hundreds against the costs of thousands if we let it into the marine environment.”

The study comes from researchers from the UK and Norway who analyzed the multiple ways which plastic pollution can damage and destroy natural resources. The annual cost per ton of  a reduced environmental value runs between $3,300 and $33,000 per ton of marine plastic ( 2011 values). In 2011 it was estimated the oceans contained between 75 and 150 million tons of plastic at that time (probably much more now)

The analysis included:

Seafood: It is a dietary staple for 20% of the global population, but by contaminating plastic in the food chain, entanglement reducing fish stocks, is a severe threat. Loss of food, a loss of livelihood and income.

Heritage: Some marine species, sea turtles, whales, and birds are a cultural significance. Entanglement, plastic ingestion are a threat.

Experiential recreation: Coastal enjoyment such as walking, sports and hobbies  are reduced by unsightly plastic. People will spend less time enjoying and thus the area could suffer a loss of activity and tourism. In addition the clean up expense, increased injuries and effect on health.

Shifting ecology: The only organism that benefits from plastic is alga and bacteria Not a good thing. Think green ponds and diseases and invasive species (think bamboo)

It is a sad state of affairs, despite the viral news on plastic pollution, our oceans and waste, people continue to trash the beaches. leaving being plastic cups, plastic straws, plastic food wrapping, plastic toys, plastic packaging, plastic bottles, plastic personal items, plastic plates, plastic eating utensils, plastic shoes… the list goes on and on .

Resources 

Unenvironment: Plastic Waste Causes Financial Damage 

Science Direct 

Treehugger