Marine scientists have announced a breakthrough technology capable of removing microplastics from seawater with 99% efficiency, offering new hope in the fight against ocean pollution.

Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in diameter, have become ubiquitous in marine environments worldwide and have entered the food chain.

The Technology

The new filtration system employs advanced materials science and biological processes. At its core is a specially engineered membrane made from sustainable plant-based polymers that can capture particles as small as one micrometer.

Dr. Sarah Chen, the project’s lead scientist, explained: “Traditional filtration methods struggle with microplastics because of their small size. Our membrane uses unique surface chemistry that attracts plastic particles regardless of type.”

Testing Results

In trials off the California coast, the technology removed 99.2% of microplastics from treated water samples, far exceeding existing methods. The system proved effective against all major types of microplastics.

Implementation

The filtration units are modular, allowing installation at wastewater facilities, industrial outflows, and strategic coastal locations. Deploying at major pollution entry points could reduce annual microplastic flow into oceans by up to 80%.

The UN Environment Programme has called the technology “a potential game-changer” in the fight against ocean plastic pollution.