Researchers are finding that ocean currents carry plastic pollution -- cigarette lighters, plastic bags and other trash -- from the world's coastlines to the middle of its oceans. Two experts answer your questions on the impact of plastic ocean pollution.
I can't help but notice the similarities of the items that we find on the shores of Lake Michigan. Are there any researchers studying the currents of the Great Lakes and the trail of garbage along their shores?
Holly Bamford responds:
NOAA does extensive work in the Great Lakes, but as of yet we have not investigated the patterns of marine debris in and around them. It would be an interesting study to compare the amounts and types of marine debris in the Great Lakes relative to the population in those areas.
Charles Moore responds:
We made a proposal to study the Gulf of Saint Lawrence and some of the Great Lakes which was rejected by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. It would be an interesting study.
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