Australian Coastal Plastic Pollution Down 39%: Cigarette Butts, Polystyrene Remain Top Offenders
CSIRO research reveals a 39% decrease in coastal plastic pollution across six Australian metropolitan areas over the past decade, with a notable 16% increase in plastic-free survey sites. While polystyrene and cigarette butts remain prevalent, decreases were observed in Newcastle, Perth, and the Sunshine Coast, highlighting the impact of increased awareness and waste management efforts. This study, published in *Marine Pollution Bulletin*, informs future waste management strategies and policy evaluations aimed at achieving an 80% reduction in plastic waste by 2030.
John Q. Hosedrinker