A new study has found that the agriculture, shipping and fishing sectors are the main sources of plastic pollution in our seas.

The study was commissioned by the European network of marine NGOs and published by Galway Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT).

'Microplastics in the marine environment: sources, impacts and recommendations' is the work of microplastic researchers at GMIT and the report's publication coincides with the commencement of European Green Week 2021 where the focus is on zero pollution for healthier people and planet.

The aim of the report is to provide useful information for decision-makers, stakeholders, researchers, and the general public.

Key findings of the reports are as follows:

The report was compiled by members of the marine microplastic research team in the Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC) at Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT), and MalDeegan Productions in Dublin.