Desktop Study on Marine Litter Including Microplastics in the Arctic

Abstract

The Desktop Study on Marine Litter including Microplastics in the Arctic (Phase I) project collected all relevant and existing literature and scientific studies on marine litter in the Arctic. The aim was to better understand the sources and drivers of marine litter, the pathways and distribution, the interactions with and impacts on biota, and monitoring and responses. This is the first compilation of literature and studies of marine litter covering the circumpolar Arctic but is by no means exhaustive. It helps to improve the understanding of the status and impacts of marine litter and provides an opportunity to identify potential next steps to further examine and address marine litter, including microplastics, in the Arctic Ocean.