Abstract
In order to tackle problems related to marine plastics debris, there are three particular aspects where attention needs to be focused: dynamic aspect, international aspect, and diversity of problems and measures. The author proposes that all plastic products be categorized into three categories : Type A) products which release micro-plastic during normal usage (long life and short life ; Type B ) products which end up as micro-plastic after littering or illegal dumping on land ; and Type C) products which are released directly into marine environments. In the waste management field, the release of micro-plastics from Type A products is as yet still not recognized as a major problem and it is therefore necessary to initiate comprehensive research with the aim of establishing effective measures for the control of waste flow.
The author proposes that emphasis be placed on the following : 1) transfer of experience, technologies, and know-how for waste management systems to neighboring countries ; 2) salvaging of floating plastic debris ; and 3) measures against use of Type A products, prevention of micro-plastic generation from the use of Type A products, or collection of micro-plastics from Type A products. Lastly, the author stresses that because quantitative information on the use and generation of end-of-life fishing gear is very scarce, there is an urgent need to carry out detailed surveys on this issue as well.
