THE PROBLEM

An estimated 8.3 billion metric tons of plastics have been produced since the start of commercial production in the 1950s. Not including textile fibers, approximately 42% of these plastics have been used for packaging, which is used for only a short time before it becomes discarded as waste. An estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic waste enters the oceans each year, where it poses risks to the health of marine animals and the ocean ecosystem. By reducing the amount of plastic waste generated, we will reduce the amount that could be lost to the ocean and cause harm.

Sources: Geyer et al., Science Advances 2017; Jambeck et al., Science 2015.

MISSION Statement

Trash Shouldn’t Splash promotes a reduction in use of single-use items, especially those made of plastics, to decrease waste on land and in the oceans, which scientific research indicates harms marine life and potentially human health.