Marine Litter and Microplastics in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) – Reports

The Western Indian Ocean (WIO) is a region where high biodiversity is increasingly being impacted by anthropogenic marine debris.

However, information about the amounts, types, and sources of marine litter are scattered. 136 studies on marine litter and microplastics in the WIO region were conducted to harmonize existing knowledge. Scientists, NGO coordinators, citizens and park rangers with experience in marine litter monitoring and management were also interviewed to supplement the information presented in the literature and to further improve knowledge of marine litter in the region.

The result was the publication of four reports on marine litter and microplastics.

The four reports are:

1. A Review of the Current Status of Marine Litter and Microplastics Knowledge in the Western Indian Ocean Region: amounts, sources, fate and resultant ecological impacts on the coastal and marine environment and on human health
2. Economic Consequences of Unmanaged Plastics and Economic Opportunities in the Western Indian Ocean: Steps Toward Action Plans
3. A Review of Marine Plastic Litter in the Western Indian Ocean Region: Effectiveness of measures undertaken and opportunities
4. Marine Plastic Litter in the WIO Region: Status, implications on the environment, human populations and effectiveness of measures and opportunities: A Synthesis Report

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