5. Plastics in Antarctica

Plastic pollution has reached every part of Antarctica. British Antarctic Survey marine ecologist Dr. Clara Manno explains how macroplastics and microplastics travel to the polar region through human activity, ocean currents, and other transport pathways. Plastic has been found in snow, freshwater, sea ice, the water column, and seafloor sediments. The conversation examines how it interacts with Antarctic wildlife and marine ecosystems, including processes that help the ocean absorb carbon dioxide. Learn why Antarctica’s remoteness cannot shield it from global consumption and waste, and why reducing polar plastic pollution requires both local safeguards and coordinated international action.Episode Guest: Dr. Clara MannoMore information about Dr. Clara Manno here. Browse Dr. Clara Manno’s’ publications on Google ScholarMore information about Plastic-AG hereListen to Plastic Podcast on Spotify and Apple PodcastsFor More information about the United Nations Treaty on Plastic follow the Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastics Treaty on LinkedinEpisode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media WebsiteFollow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmediaHosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. Theme music by Nela Ruiz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.