Stubborn Surface Waste
A new modelling study by researchers at HR Wallingford and Queen Mary University shows that ocean plastic can linger on the surface for more than 100 years, even if no new waste enters the sea.

 

Why It Stays Afloat
Large pieces gradually break into smaller fragments over decades. These tiny bits often hitch onto sinking organic particles, yet a portion still remains at the surface, continuing to degrade.

 

Long-Term Impact
After a century, around a tenth of the original material may still be floating, releasing microplastics and underscoring the need for solutions that go far beyond surface clean-ups.