DCLWhile it may seem like a plot from a dystopian sci-fi movie, the Pacific Island Trash Vortex is a stark reality. This enormous floating mass of debris, large enough to cover two Texases, drifts north of Hawaii. Need proof? Check out this video evidence of the Trash Vortex on the G Word. Additionally, a Greenpeace animation illustrates how the trash accumulates and moves.
So, what can we do about this colossal floating landfill? First, let's stop adding to it. While we should strive to keep all waterways clean, avoiding waste in specific bodies of water can directly reduce the growth of this unfortunate and rapidly expanding 'nation' of trash.
Where the Journey to the Great Pacific Trash Vortex Begins:
1. The Pacific Ocean: It's obvious, but when you're enjoying the West Coast beaches, ensure your trash is disposed of correctly. Double-check your area for any small items you might have forgotten—unless you fancy a trip to the open ocean to retrieve them later.
2. Rivers that feed into the Pacific: It's straightforward—maintain the cleanliness of your local rivers to halt the flow of trash.
3. The toilet bowl: While not technically a body of water, avoid flushing non-biodegradable waste. Trash can escape sanitation systems and harm local ecosystems, including rivers.
