Pacific garbage patch may be changing ocean’s colour, satellite study finds

 Research indicates that microplastics in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch may be changing ocean color. This change creates a subtle blue-green tint that satellites have detected over twenty years. Scientists analyzed how microplastics affect light scattering and absorption and compared it with natural materials. Future studies will require optical measurements from the patch for confirmation. Preventing microplastics from entering oceans is critical to reducing their impact. Research indicates that microplastics in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch may be changing ocean color. This change creates a subtle blue-green tint that satellites have detected over twenty years. Scientists analyzed how microplastics affect light scattering and absorption and compared it with natural materials. Future studies will require optical measurements from the patch for confirmation. Preventing microplastics from entering oceans is critical to reducing their impact.