We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Marine plastic pollution governance: the role and challenges of international law
Summary
A review of international legal frameworks for marine plastic pollution finds current governance fragmented and inadequate, calling for a lifecycle-based international legal regime to address the full chain of plastic production, use, and disposal. Strengthening international law is essential for systemic microplastic reduction, as ocean connectivity means that plastic—and the microplastics it becomes—cannot be managed effectively by individual nations alone.
Abstract Marine plastic debris poses a serious threat to the global marine ecosystem and has become a pressing international concern. Given the connectivity and mobility of the oceans, the fragmented international governance further underscores the urgent need for a holistic approach. To address this fragmentation, we review the evolution of international legal frameworks for marine plastic pollution, identify prevailing challenges, and propose concrete pathways for establishing a life-cycle-based international legal regime.