Scientists have discovered “alarming levels” of plastic and other man-made debris in the depths of sea caves in the Mediterranean.
What is going on?
A group of researchers carried out a comprehensive survey of marine litter inside coastal caves on the island of Cyprus.
“We found debris in every cave studied, with some containing abundances of up to 97 objects per square meter — many exceeding levels typically found on open beaches, the sea surface, or the sea floor,” two of the authors stated in a Phys.org article summarizing the newly published study.
They explained that sea caves act as “natural traps,” quietly accumulating marine debris.
“What we saw inside some caves was shocking,” they added.
Why is this important?
This study helps fill an important gap in understanding the extent of plastic pollution in the oceans. The authors noted that while sea caves have often been overlooked in marine litter research, these spaces act as safe havens for many species. For example, many of the caves surveyed by the team are known resting and breeding sites for Mediterranean monk seals, which they described as “one of the world’s most endangered marine mammals.”
“While no deaths of monk seals or serious injuries from macro-litter have yet been documented in the Mediterranean, recent studies have already confirmed the presence of microplastics in the digestive tracts of the species,” they added.
According to WWF Australia, 100,000 marine mammals die each year after ingesting or becoming entangled in ocean plastic.
Meanwhile, scientists are investigating the impacts of microplastics — tiny particles that break off from larger plastics as they decompose — on human health. These particles have been detected in our water, food, soil and air, and have so far been linked to major health concerns such as reduced blood flow to the brain and lung cancer.
What is being done about plastic pollution?
One thing we can all do to help with the plastic plague is to use less of it. For example, consider buying a sturdy reusable cup instead of settling on prepackaged bottled water that comes in single-use plastic containers. Another impactful action is to bring your own reusable container for leftovers when eating out.
Meanwhile, scientists studying the cave are pushing for more research.
“This is just the beginning, and we urgently need wider monitoring throughout the Mediterranean to understand how widespread the problem really is,” they stated.
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