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What are microplastics?

Plastics in the ocean facts:

  • Approximately 8 million tons of plastic waste enter the oceans every year - National Geographic

    "We are being choked to death by the amount of plastic that we throw away. It's killing our oceans. It's entering into our bodies in the fish we eat."
    Kevin Bacon, American actor and environmental advocate.
  • The fossil fuel industry plans to increase plastic production by 40% over the next decade, according to the Center for Biological Diversity

    Fewer than 1 in 7 plastic bags are recycled
    Biologicaldiversity.org
  • By 2050, there could be more plastic in the ocean than fish - WE Forum

    “Plastic pollution is a global issue: killing wildlife, contaminating our oceans and waters, and lasting far longer than it is used.”
    Leonardo DiCaprio, actor and environmental activist.
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How do plastics end up in the ocean?

The four main ways are: direct dumping, plastics that get washed down the drain, litter and industrial leaks and spills. 

To take action on microplastics you can:

  • Reduce your use of single-use plastics, such as plastic bags, straws, and bottles.
  • Carry reusable items, like shopping bags, water bottles, and utensils.
  • Support businesses that prioritize eco-friendly packaging and products.

 What are microplastics? And how to avoid them

Avoid Waste

Reducing single-use plastics lowers the amount of plastic waste in landfills and the environment.

Save Water

Less plastic pollution in waterways means cleaner water sources for humans and wildlife.

Save Money

Using reusable items can save money over time by reducing the need to buy disposable products.

Earn points by reducing you daily plastics usage:

Use Commit2Act to track the impact of your actions! 

Plastic debris can come in all shapes and sizes, but those that are less than five millimetres in length (or about the size of a pencil eraser) are called “microplastics"


Learn facts about microplastics, earn rewards, qualify for prizes and be inspired by others who are taking action to protect our oceans.

  • Each Action has a calculation to determine how much C02 has been saved.
  • Upload photos of your action as evidence to demonstrate your plastic saving deeds.
  • Harness the power of AI image recognition to validate your impact.

Who's leading the charge on Ocean Plastics

Plastic Pollution Coalition

A global alliance working to stop plastic pollution and its toxic impacts on humans, animals, and the environment.
Visit Website

The Ocean Cleanup

A non-profit organization that develops advanced technologies to rid the world's oceans of plastic.
Visit Website

Break Free From Plastic

Break Free From Plastic

A global movement envisioning a future free from plastic pollution.
Visit Website

Plastic Pollution News & Media

  • The Guardian - Microplastics found in human blood for the first time

    The GuardianDamian Carrington2022-03-24

    Learn More
  • Plastic Recycling is an Actual Scam

    Climate TownRollie Williams2020-12-17

    Learn More
  • Plastic Recycling Topic Backgrounder

    GreenLearningGreenLearning Canada Foundation

    Learn More
  • Plastic Recycling

    GreenLearningGreenLearning Canada Foundation

    Learn More
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Other Actions you can take

Wash in Cold Water! Get Clean, Go Green
Become a Sustainable Travel Champion by Biking, Walking or taking Public Transit.
Go Green With a Plant-Based Diet
Sow Seeds for a Greener Future, Plant a Garden or Tree!
Avoid Fast Fashion for a Sustainable Future!

Sharing is Caring

Share this website with friends to build a community of action takers and post your actions on social using #COMMIT2ACT

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