ABSTRACT
A key issue is the problem of micro-plastics either derived from small and nano-sized particles from specific use or applications of plastics, or produced through the breakdown of larger items. A range of proposals including new international agreements, stronger state action, increased focus on reducing single use plastics, and working with business and corporations on circular economy approaches, have been proposed. The signatories agreed to take a lifecycle approach to plastics stewardship on land and at sea to avoid unnecessary use of plastics and prevent waste, and to ensure that plastics are designed for recovery, reuse, recycling and end-of-life management to prevent waste through various policy measures. The Ocean Plastics Charter addresses twenty-three actions across five core areas: Sustainable design, production, and after-use markets; Collection, management, and other systems and infrastructure; Sustainable lifestyles and education; Research, innovation, and new technologies; and Coastal and shoreline action.
