Economies of Scale
Pam Longobardi | © 2014
This is an trawl float made of ABS plastic, another thermoplastic made from styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
Trawl net webbing has a high entanglement rate. Entanglement has been recorded in six out of the seven existing sea turtle species.
Trawl net webbing has a high entanglement rate. Entanglement has been recorded in six out of the seven existing sea turtle species.
orange net float
Shuyak Island, Alaska, 2013
Styrofoam is a light-weight material that is about 95% air with very good insulation properties. A health concern with polystyrene (Styrofoam) is associated with Styrene. Styrene is used in the manufacture of plastics, runner and resins. About 90,000 workers are exposed to it causing irritation of the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal effects. Constant exposure affects the central nervous system causing depression, headaches, fatigue, and weakness and can cause minor effects on kidney function and blood. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
This float has been speculated by scientists to have been pulled to extreme depths by a whale or large pelagic fish, the pressure at such depths compressing the foam to result in this peculiar shape.
This float has been speculated by scientists to have been pulled to extreme depths by a whale or large pelagic fish, the pressure at such depths compressing the foam to result in this peculiar shape.
compressed styrene float
Kodiak Island, Alaska, 2013
This is an trawl float made of ABS plastic, another thermoplastic made from styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
Trawl net webbing has a high entanglement rate. Entanglement has been recorded in six out of the seven existing sea turtle species.
Trawl net webbing has a high entanglement rate. Entanglement has been recorded in six out of the seven existing sea turtle species.
yellow net float
Afognak Island, Alaska, 2013
white net float with japanese
Bulldog Island, Resurrection Bay, Alaska, 2011
black knight decorative bottle
South Point, Hawaii, 2007
Drift netting is a fishing technique where nets hang vertically in the water column without being anchored to the bottom. The floats at the top and weights at the bottom of the nets keep them vertical. Drift nets were originally made out of organic materials that were biodegradable, such as hemp. These nets had a larger mesh size and only caught large fish, allowing the smaller ones to escape. In the 1950’s, the drift net industry changed to synthetic materials to create a smaller mesh size. Drift net fishing has since then been monitored; only allowing certain lengths of drift net in certain places.
Drift net fishing has a big problem with by-catch. Any fish that crosses the path of a drift net can be caught in the net, the by-catch is when any non-targeted species is caught in the net. Species caught as by-catch include sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. When by-catch is thrown back into the ocean whether it is dead or injured. When a large amount of dead matter is decomposing in the ocean it causes the levels of dissolved oxygen to decrease. Drift nets can become ghost nets when lost at sea. Because the synthetic nets do not decompose, they fish indefinitely, the float line allowing it to be pushed with the current. This also causes damage to the plant life and substrate habitats as the net drags the sea floor.
Drift net fishing has a big problem with by-catch. Any fish that crosses the path of a drift net can be caught in the net, the by-catch is when any non-targeted species is caught in the net. Species caught as by-catch include sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. When by-catch is thrown back into the ocean whether it is dead or injured. When a large amount of dead matter is decomposing in the ocean it causes the levels of dissolved oxygen to decrease. Drift nets can become ghost nets when lost at sea. Because the synthetic nets do not decompose, they fish indefinitely, the float line allowing it to be pushed with the current. This also causes damage to the plant life and substrate habitats as the net drags the sea floor.
driftnet float
Afognak Island, Alaska, 2013
Drift netting is a fishing technique where nets hang vertically in the water column without being anchored to the bottom. The floats at the top and weights at the bottom of the nets keep them vertical. Drift nets were originally made out of organic materials that were biodegradable, such as hemp. These nets had a larger mesh size and only caught large fish, allowing the smaller ones to escape. In the 1950’s, the drift net industry changed to synthetic materials to create a smaller mesh size. Drift net fishing has since then been monitored; only allowing certain lengths of drift net in certain places.
Drift net fishing has a big problem with by-catch. Any fish that crosses the path of a drift net can be caught in the net, the by-catch is when any non-targeted species is caught in the net. Species caught as by-catch include sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. When by-catch is thrown back into the ocean whether it is dead or injured. When a large amount of dead matter is decomposing in the ocean it causes the levels of dissolved oxygen to decrease. Drift nets can become ghost nets when lost at sea. Because the synthetic nets do not decompose, they fish indefinitely, the float line allowing it to be pushed with the current. This also causes damage to the plant life and substrate habitats as the net drags the sea floor.
Drift net fishing has a big problem with by-catch. Any fish that crosses the path of a drift net can be caught in the net, the by-catch is when any non-targeted species is caught in the net. Species caught as by-catch include sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. When by-catch is thrown back into the ocean whether it is dead or injured. When a large amount of dead matter is decomposing in the ocean it causes the levels of dissolved oxygen to decrease. Drift nets can become ghost nets when lost at sea. Because the synthetic nets do not decompose, they fish indefinitely, the float line allowing it to be pushed with the current. This also causes damage to the plant life and substrate habitats as the net drags the sea floor.
driftnet float
Kodiak Island, Alaska, 2013
Drift netting is a fishing technique where nets hang vertically in the water column without being anchored to the bottom. The floats at the top and weights at the bottom of the nets keep them vertical. Drift nets were originally made out of organic materials that were biodegradable, such as hemp. These nets had a larger mesh size and only caught large fish, allowing the smaller ones to escape. In the 1950’s, the drift net industry changed to synthetic materials to create a smaller mesh size. Drift net fishing has since then been monitored; only allowing certain lengths of drift net in certain places.
Drift net fishing has a big problem with by-catch. Any fish that crosses the path of a drift net can be caught in the net, the by-catch is when any non-targeted species is caught in the net. Species caught as by-catch include sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. When by-catch is thrown back into the ocean whether it is dead or injured. When a large amount of dead matter is decomposing in the ocean it causes the levels of dissolved oxygen to decrease. Drift nets can become ghost nets when lost at sea. Because the synthetic nets do not decompose, they fish indefinitely, the float line allowing it to be pushed with the current. This also causes damage to the plant life and substrate habitats as the net drags the sea floor.
Drift net fishing has a big problem with by-catch. Any fish that crosses the path of a drift net can be caught in the net, the by-catch is when any non-targeted species is caught in the net. Species caught as by-catch include sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. When by-catch is thrown back into the ocean whether it is dead or injured. When a large amount of dead matter is decomposing in the ocean it causes the levels of dissolved oxygen to decrease. Drift nets can become ghost nets when lost at sea. Because the synthetic nets do not decompose, they fish indefinitely, the float line allowing it to be pushed with the current. This also causes damage to the plant life and substrate habitats as the net drags the sea floor.
driftnet float
Shukay Island, Alaska, 2013
Styrofoam is a light-weight material that is about 95% air with very good insulation properties. A health concern with polystyrene (Styrofoam) is associated with Styrene. Styrene is used in the manufacture of plastics, runner and resins. About 90,000 workers are exposed to it causing irritation of the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal effects. Constant exposure affects the central nervous system causing depression, headaches, fatigue, and weakness and can cause minor effects on kidney function and blood. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
Compressed styrene net float
Shuyak Island, Alaska, 2013
Styrofoam is a light-weight material that is about 95% air with very good insulation properties. A health concern with polystyrene (Styrofoam) is associated with Styrene. Styrene is used in the manufacture of plastics, runner and resins. About 90,000 workers are exposed to it causing irritation of the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal effects. Constant exposure affects the central nervous system causing depression, headaches, fatigue, and weakness and can cause minor effects on kidney function and blood. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
compressed styrene net float
Kodiak Island, Alaska, 2013
These are vintage floats and today can be found on ebay. Most objects now made of plastic were originally made of natural, biodegradable substances.
wooden net float
Whale Skull Island, Alaska 2013
Styrofoam is a light-weight material that is about 95% air with very good insulation properties. A health concern with polystyrene (Styrofoam) is associated with Styrene. Styrene is used in the manufacture of plastics, runner and resins. About 90,000 workers are exposed to it causing irritation of the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal effects. Constant exposure affects the central nervous system causing depression, headaches, fatigue, and weakness and can cause minor effects on kidney function and blood. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
styrene net float
Gore Point, Alaska, 2013
Hard plastic floats are pressure tested floats that are generally used to support trawl nets in both shallow and deep water. These floats can be made from PVC, EVA, or Polystyrene. They can be used in commercial gill net fisheries as well as various crab fisheries. PVC and EVA are both vinyls, but what makes PVC different from other vinyls is the addition of a chlorine molecule. Chlorine is the source of many of the environmental health concerns with PVC. It generates dioxin which is a highly carcinogenic chemical produced in the manufacture and disposal of PVC. Dioxin has become a global problem and an international treaty is working toward eliminating the production of dioxion.
hard plastic net float
Afognak Island, Alaska, 2013
Reach was created for kids to help them make brushing worth looking forward to. It is a Dr. Fresh product.
The REACH brand toothbrush was introduced in 1972 with the intent to make it easier to clean hard-to-reach places.
The REACH brand toothbrush was introduced in 1972 with the intent to make it easier to clean hard-to-reach places.
Reach toothbrush
Midway Atoll, 2010
bent baby spoon with Korean text
Midway Atoll, Hawaii 2010
black female figure toothbrush
Midway Atoll, Hawaii, 2010
Styrofoam is a light-weight material that is about 95% air with very good insulation properties. A health concern with polystyrene (Styrofoam) is associated with Styrene. Styrene is used in the manufacture of plastics, runner and resins. About 90,000 workers are exposed to it causing irritation of the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal effects. Constant exposure affects the central nervous system causing depression, headaches, fatigue, and weakness and can cause minor effects on kidney function and blood. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
Styrofoam ball
sea cave at Cape Liakas, Kefalonia, Greece 2012
Styrene floats are made from high density compressed foam. The regulation size for cray pots and fishing nets is 200mm. And there is a central hole running through the middle of the float. Styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances "reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
red crushed polystyrene float
Resurrection Bay, Alaska, 2010
container with text
Jaco, Costa Rica
decorative fish bottle
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
melted turquoise bottle
South Point, Hawaii 2006
Plastics found on the Big Island near South Point are often melted in this fashion, possibly from floating past the coastal zone flow field of the world’s most active volcano, Kīlauea, where lava spectacularly erupts into the ocean. Melted plastics found in other parts of the world are usually the product of human attempts to dispose of plastic by burning it. This is ineffective and releases toxic chemicals in the smoke. This was a detergent or bleach bottle, that was contact-melted by lava, which has left black traces visible in the contours.
Drift net fishing became a commercial fishing practice because it is cost effective. Nets can be placed by low-powered vessels making it fuel efficient, and bring in large amounts of fish in one catch, leading to the exploitation this method as one that has contributed to vast overfishing such that the Census of Marine Life of 2011 cited a 90% decline in large pelagic predatory fish worldwide, and other scientists predict the oceans will be empty of fish by 2048. Prior to 1950, nets tended to have a larger mesh size. The larger mesh only caught the larger fish, allowing the smaller, younger ones to slip through. When drift net fishing grew in scale during the 1950s, the industry changed to plastics with smaller mesh size.
Drift nets are massive and can be from 37 – 56 miles long (60-90 km) and 150 fathoms deep. Prior to the UN driftnet ban in 1991, these nets were of enormous proportions reaching lengths of 40 to 60 km. Despite the UN ban on large-scale driftnets, illegal nets are still being used, and the massive ‘legacy’ nets lost at sea before the 1991 still continue to fish.
Any fish that crosses the path of a drift net in the ocean may be tangled or caught in the net. Non-target individuals caught in the net are called by-catch. In 1994 United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO) estimated global by-catch rates to be as high as 27 million tons of fish discarded by fisheries each year.[6] Many individuals of non-target species perish as by-catch in the cast of each drift net. As a result, many such species are now endangered. Species caught as by-catch include sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. Since nets are placed and may not be retrieved for days, air-breathing mammals that become tangled in the nets drown if they are unable to free themselves. In 1990s drift net fisheries were responsible for 30,000 tons of sharks and skates in global by-catch annually.
Drift nets lost or abandoned at sea due to storms causing strong currents, accidental loss, or purposeful discard become ghost nets. Synthetic nets are resistant to rot or breakdown, therefore ghost nets fish indefinitely in the oceans. Marine animals are easily tangled in ghost nets. The float line on the net allows it to be pushed in the current which causes ecological damage to plant life and substrate habitats as the nets drag the sea floor.
Drift nets are massive and can be from 37 – 56 miles long (60-90 km) and 150 fathoms deep. Prior to the UN driftnet ban in 1991, these nets were of enormous proportions reaching lengths of 40 to 60 km. Despite the UN ban on large-scale driftnets, illegal nets are still being used, and the massive ‘legacy’ nets lost at sea before the 1991 still continue to fish.
Any fish that crosses the path of a drift net in the ocean may be tangled or caught in the net. Non-target individuals caught in the net are called by-catch. In 1994 United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO) estimated global by-catch rates to be as high as 27 million tons of fish discarded by fisheries each year.[6] Many individuals of non-target species perish as by-catch in the cast of each drift net. As a result, many such species are now endangered. Species caught as by-catch include sharks, dolphins, whales, turtles, sea birds, and other marine mammals. Since nets are placed and may not be retrieved for days, air-breathing mammals that become tangled in the nets drown if they are unable to free themselves. In 1990s drift net fisheries were responsible for 30,000 tons of sharks and skates in global by-catch annually.
Drift nets lost or abandoned at sea due to storms causing strong currents, accidental loss, or purposeful discard become ghost nets. Synthetic nets are resistant to rot or breakdown, therefore ghost nets fish indefinitely in the oceans. Marine animals are easily tangled in ghost nets. The float line on the net allows it to be pushed in the current which causes ecological damage to plant life and substrate habitats as the nets drag the sea floor.
blue driftnet float, fish logo
South Point, Hawaii, 2010
Plastic gill net floats are constructed of high impact polystyrene for durability and long life. They are resistant to chemicals, acids and alkalis, and withstand all weather conditions. Gill nets are regulated by the mesh size of the gear. Turtles and sharks can be caught in these nets. “Ghost” fishing of lost gears is one of the major problems with gillnets, the synthetic fibers do not rot and the gear will fish for a long time. Fishers like using this fishing method because it is cheap.
Balanus perforatus or acorn barnacle is a large barnacle that grows up to 30 mm (1.2 in) in both diameter and height. Its shape resembles a volcano with steep sloping sides. The six fused lateral calcareous plates are pale purplish-brown and often ridged vertically. It is found on coastlines along the eastern side of the Atlantic Ocean, including the Mediterranean Sea and the English Channel. Its most northerly extent is in southern areas of England and Wales,[2] and at this limit of its range it can be greatly affected by severe winters. It has been expanding its range with the rises in temperature that have been occurring in recent decades.[4] It is found on rocks and man-made structures from mid-shore to the neritic zone and also forms part of the fouling community on the hulls of ships. Barnacles are hermaphrodites, and are considered parasites on whales.
Balanus perforatus or acorn barnacle is a large barnacle that grows up to 30 mm (1.2 in) in both diameter and height. Its shape resembles a volcano with steep sloping sides. The six fused lateral calcareous plates are pale purplish-brown and often ridged vertically. It is found on coastlines along the eastern side of the Atlantic Ocean, including the Mediterranean Sea and the English Channel. Its most northerly extent is in southern areas of England and Wales,[2] and at this limit of its range it can be greatly affected by severe winters. It has been expanding its range with the rises in temperature that have been occurring in recent decades.[4] It is found on rocks and man-made structures from mid-shore to the neritic zone and also forms part of the fouling community on the hulls of ships. Barnacles are hermaphrodites, and are considered parasites on whales.
net float with giant barnacles
Kure Atoll, Hawaii, 2008
orange net float
Resurrection Bay, Alaska, 2011
Marker or mooring buoy. The first recorded buoy was mentioned in La Compasso de Navigare, although some types of floating markers may have existed before the 13th century. Back then they were mostly hollow wooden casks bound with iron bands and moored with chain and a large stone. In the 1940’s, plastic buoys were tested, and now virtually every one of the billions of floats, buoys, and mooring balls is made from plastic. Plastic floats are one of the most ubiquitous plastic debris found in Alaska.
melted plastic mesh
South Point, Hawaii, 2008
action figure torso
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
Vintage toy Clark Kent action figure torso with movable arms and legs. Clark Kent is the human pre-superhero form of Marvel comic’s popular Superman, evidenced by the molded business attire form of the torso.
Sweet Scent bear decanter
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
Vintage perfume decanter from 1960-70’s likely a knockoff of the popular Avon bear decanter collection.
A type of fireworks that are called "aerial spinners," with different brand names applied to every company's product. Still typically propelled by the ignition of gunpowder— a technological innovation that pre-dates the American Revolution itself, the fall-out includes a variety of toxic pollution that rain down on neighborhoods from coast to coast, often in violation of federal Clean Air Act standards. Because the spectacular display is mirrored when shot over water, the toxins go directly into waterways of the world. In addition to plastic pollution, fireworks cause environmental damage spewing heavy metals like cadmium, and cancer-causing dioxins.
fireworks aerial spinner
Neptune’s Vomitorium, Pescadero, CA 2011
action figure legs encrusted with bryozoans
Kure Atoll, Hawaii, 2008
white log toy; Flintstones?
Neptune’s Vomitorium, Pescadero, CA, 2012
black net float
South Point, Hawaii, 2009
bobber
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
unidentified pink blob
South Point, Hawaii, 2006.
Possible extrusion molding tube spillover.
Dolls were first manufactured with plastic in the 1940’s making them much more durable. Between the 1950’s and 1960’s other materials such as rubber, foam rubber, and vinyl were used in the manufacturing of dolls. The vinyl allowed doll makers to root hair into the head instead of using a wig or painting the hair on it.
doll hand
Neptune’s Vomitorium, Pescadero, California, 2011
toy corn on the cob
Minies Beach,
Kefalonia, Greece, 2011
Around 1962 BP introduced plastic containers for motor oil that replaced cans in which oil was originally sold. All oil is now sold in plastic containers that are manufactured from oil derivatives. Oil spills are extremely dangerous to the environment and can take years to clean up. The oil gets in birds feathers, makes it difficult for sea turtles to surface and breath. Along with causing death to dolphins and sea turtles, some of the fish that inhabit the Gulf’s coral reefs have developed abnormalities. BP was indicted in the 2010 Deep Water Horizon oil spill disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, a crime whose aftermath will be unfolding for decades or centuries. In an ongoing trial for gross negligence and cover up that includes the infamous Halliburton Corporation, the Gulf Coast economy has yet to recover, and the toxic effects of the oil dispersant Corexit, another form of cover up that hid the oil under the water surface and made it more difficult to remove is now contaminating Gulf coast seafood.
BP lid
Witches Cave, Assos, Kefalonia, Greece, 2012
small net float
Bulldog Island, Resurrection Bay, Alaska, 2010
cracked ball
Chattahoochee River bank, Atlanta, Georgia, 2008
This is a dog squeak toy. Inside is a small plastic bulb that makes them squeak. Some believe the sound is similar to a dying small animal and that is what triggers dogs to like them, and so remove them from the toys so as not to encourage dog predation. Other dog owners have experienced near-fatal swallowing of the squeakers and warn consumers of the dangers of buying these for dogs.
BIC Pen — 1945 Marcel Dich and Edouard Buffard manufactured fountain pens and mechanical pencil parts in Clichy, France. In 1950, Bich launched the cristal ballpoint pen in France. In 1954, BIC’s entered the Italian Market.
Coffee Stirrer — when comparing wooden and plastic coffee stirrers the production of wooden sticks consumes more resources but it produces less pollution than plastic.
Styrofoam — It is a light weight material that is about 95% air with very good insulation properties. A health concern with polystyrene (Styrofoam) is associated with Styrene. Styrene is used in the manufacture of plastics, runner and resins. About 90,000 workers are exposed to it causing irritation of the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal effects. Constant exposure affects the central nervous system causing depression, headaches, fatigue, and weakness and can cause minor effects on kidney function and blood. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Coffee Stirrer — when comparing wooden and plastic coffee stirrers the production of wooden sticks consumes more resources but it produces less pollution than plastic.
Styrofoam — It is a light weight material that is about 95% air with very good insulation properties. A health concern with polystyrene (Styrofoam) is associated with Styrene. Styrene is used in the manufacture of plastics, runner and resins. About 90,000 workers are exposed to it causing irritation of the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract and gastrointestinal effects. Constant exposure affects the central nervous system causing depression, headaches, fatigue, and weakness and can cause minor effects on kidney function and blood. Styrene is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the EPA and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Styrofoam pierced by Bic pen body and Coffee stirrer
Witches Cave, Assos, Kefalonia, Greece, 2012
dinosaur leg
Gulf Shores, Alabama, 2009. Gulf of Mexico
decorative turquoise bottle
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
Today’s cookie cutter was not made by any particular individual. Ideas of having more creative ways to display bakery goods can go back as far as 2000 B.C. But it wasn’t until the 16th century that we saw something like the cookie cutter, which was used by Queen Elizabeth I of England for gingerbread biscuits that were cut in the shape of little people. When the Europeans migrated to the United States, American tinsmiths started manufacturing the cutters. In the 1800’s tin cookie cutters were sold from shops. By the mid 1800’s commercial machinery had developed and allowed cookie cutters to be manufactured in factories which allowed them to be offered in catalogs, for them to be advertised, and importing them from other countries. It was during the beginning of the 20th century that cookie cutters began to be made from aluminum and plastic.
crab cookie cutter
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
Mickey Mouse is an animated film Disney character that premiered in 1928. After Mickey Mouse took off, Walt Disney began his marketing with a line of merchandise. By the 1950’s, Mickey had a theme park, a newspaper comic strip, and the Mickey Mouse Club. One of the most ubiquitous and still popular characters the world over, Mickey’s fame coincides with the timeline of the explosion of the plastic industry.
This object is a balloon weight, tied to the string of a bunch of helium balloons to keep them from escaping. Balloons do escape, and are another nightmarish food mimic for sea turtles and whales. Like plastic bags, balloons are mistaken for jellyfish and eaten by whales and turtles, who die in extreme agony with stomachs packed full of indigestible plastic.
This object is a balloon weight, tied to the string of a bunch of helium balloons to keep them from escaping. Balloons do escape, and are another nightmarish food mimic for sea turtles and whales. Like plastic bags, balloons are mistaken for jellyfish and eaten by whales and turtles, who die in extreme agony with stomachs packed full of indigestible plastic.
flat Mickey Mouse head
South Point, Hawaii, 2008
Army Men and other war toys are manufactured to children as a form of propaganda to normalize war and condition a new generation of future soldiers. This is one example of numerous types found on beaches all over the world.
turret from toy tank
South Point, Hawaii, 2009
Army Men and other war toys are manufactured to children as a form of propaganda to normalize war and condition a new generation of future soldiers. This is one example of numerous types found on beaches all over the world.
turret from toy tank
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
Plastics found on the Big Island near South Point are often melted in this fashion, possibly from floating past the coastal zone flow field of the world’s most active volcano, Kīlauea, where lava spectacularly erupts into the ocean. Melted plastics found in other parts of the world are usually the product of human attempts to dispose of plastic by burning it. This is ineffective and releases many toxic chemicals, such as dioxins, in the smoke.
unidentified blob (red heart)
South Point, Hawaii, 2010
Lobster traps use to be made out of biodegradable material, but as of 1980 vinyl-coated steel traps and plastic bait bags, and rope became the gear of choice because the cost was cheaper. Maine’s Department of Marine Resources licenses 3 million on lobster traps each year but do not keep track of how many are lost. One improvement made is lobstermen now have to submit a request to get replacement tags, but the small plastic parts of traps degrade and fall off, littering the North Atlantic coasts of the US.
lobster trap part cut from car tire
Biddeford, Maine, 2012.
Hummingbird feeders were first designed by Laurence J. Webster of Boston for his wife. Between 1929 and 1935 Webster had a design produced by a MIT lab glassblower. In 1950 the Webster feeder was offered for sale by the Audubon Novelty Company of Median, NY and since then, most feeders are made from plastic. This specimen is from the COSCO Yokohama container ship spill that self-reported a loss of 29 containers in the northern Gulf of Alaska in late January 2012; the containers' contents have been strewn along thousands of miles of Alaskan shoreline.
By April of 2012, items such as the hummingbird feeders, pieces from wood birdhouses, aluminum drinking bottles, foam balls of many varieties, walkers for handicapped persons, plastic novelty fly swatters, and large chemical sprayers for fertilizer or pesticides were washing up on Gulf of Alaska shores. At this time, there is no information available about exactly what contents the containers held. Organizations that monitor debris suspect that a lot of other items found at monitoring sites also came from the container spill, but a shipping manifest is needed to prove that. Container spills are often not reported due to insurance and environmental liability.
By April of 2012, items such as the hummingbird feeders, pieces from wood birdhouses, aluminum drinking bottles, foam balls of many varieties, walkers for handicapped persons, plastic novelty fly swatters, and large chemical sprayers for fertilizer or pesticides were washing up on Gulf of Alaska shores. At this time, there is no information available about exactly what contents the containers held. Organizations that monitor debris suspect that a lot of other items found at monitoring sites also came from the container spill, but a shipping manifest is needed to prove that. Container spills are often not reported due to insurance and environmental liability.
humming bird feeder (part)
Katmai National Park,
Alaska, 2013
By the late 1990s, sales of air fresheners in the United States had exceeded several hundred million dollars per year. Glade Plug-Ins are one of the new more popular air freshener products. Air fresheners have been used for thousands of years but the first modern one was made in 1948.
air freshener cover
South Point Hawaii, 2007
Endless is a Greek cleaning supply company.
The Eurochartiki company has engaged in paper products tissue, liquid detergent production, and marketing of personal hygiene items since 1993. Based on the list of ICAP, Eurochartiki is one of the largest companies in the field of paper and detergent in Greece. It is a purely Greek company. The modern production plants, warehouses and offices are located in Aspropyrgos. Their vision and mission is the continuing development of its capabilities and its people, creating high levels of productivity and innovative products through technology and research, to meet the expectations of customers and shareholders and contribute to the protection of the environment. Plastic caps, bottles, and plastic film-backed paper table cloths are used all over the island nation of Greece, and many find their way into the seas.
The Eurochartiki company has engaged in paper products tissue, liquid detergent production, and marketing of personal hygiene items since 1993. Based on the list of ICAP, Eurochartiki is one of the largest companies in the field of paper and detergent in Greece. It is a purely Greek company. The modern production plants, warehouses and offices are located in Aspropyrgos. Their vision and mission is the continuing development of its capabilities and its people, creating high levels of productivity and innovative products through technology and research, to meet the expectations of customers and shareholders and contribute to the protection of the environment. Plastic caps, bottles, and plastic film-backed paper table cloths are used all over the island nation of Greece, and many find their way into the seas.
Endless cap
Vouti Beach, Kefalonia, Greece, 2012
Indian warrior
South Point, Hawaii, 2008
King Kong was first made popular in the 1933 film produced by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack. The screenplay was written by James Ashmore Creelman and Ruth Rose who got the idea from Merian C. Cooper and Edgar Wallace.
King Kong
South Point, Hawaii, 2008
two pit crew workers toy
Midway Atoll, Hawaii, 2010
This toy depicts workers carrying the refueling tank and rolling a replacement tire for NASCAR or Formula 1 race cars.
unidentified blob (black animal)
South Point, Hawaii, 2008
True Army Men are soft plastic toy soldiers. Generally they stand 2 to 3 inches tall and are molded in one piece. They are commonly sold in plastic bags with 20 or more soldiers. Figures made of lead, tin, or other metals are not Army Men. Army Men have been around since the 1950s. The most common kind of Army Man is modeled after the American Soldier. Most Army Men are modeled in green plastic. The soft plastic used was marketed as “unbreakable”, however Army Men could be broken in several ways such as ice cold, fire, firecrackers, teeth, and guns. Army Men and other war toys are manufactured to children as a form of propaganda to normalize war and condition a new generation of future soldiers.
amputee army man
South Point, Hawaii, 2007
Playstic toy beads were first introduced in 1958 by simply chopping plastic tubes into short pieces. They were originally known as Indian beads. Today mass-produced beads are generally shaped by carving or casting depending on the material.
Mayan bead
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
In Germany, Balance is a brand of water, a homeopathic wellness beverage that is non-flavored. Balance company originated in Sydney in late 2005.
Their mission is “to provide the well-being benefits of Australian Flower Essences by delivering products around the world in an environmentally sensitive manner.” It is now sold in Australia, Asia, America and Europe, operating offices in New York and Sydney.
Their mission is “to provide the well-being benefits of Australian Flower Essences by delivering products around the world in an environmentally sensitive manner.” It is now sold in Australia, Asia, America and Europe, operating offices in New York and Sydney.
Balance bottle top
Spree River bank, Berlin, Germany, 2012
green alien head
Neptune’s Vomitorium, Pescadero, California, 2012
unidentified green button
South Point, Hawaii, 2008
Cap Guns contain small discs of shock sensitive explosive compounds which provide the noise and smoke. It was originally made of cast iron, then zinc alloy, and now plastic. One of the main companies that make cap guns is Nichols. They were popular during a 20 year period after WWII. After this 20 year period, many of the companies that made cap guns sold out or started making other types of toys.
cap gun bullet round
Playa Samara, Costa Rica, 2009
unidentified red cross
Playa Samara, Costa Rica, 2011
Tile spacer for laying tiles. These small plastic tools create uniform gaps for regularity in tiled floors and walls. Although they are totally reusable, they are also so cheap they are often considered disposable.
unidentified green ball
South Point, Hawaii, 2008
Pluto is a cartoon character created in 1930 by Walt Disney Productions, and is Mickey Mouse's pet. Together with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck and Goofy, Pluto is one of the "Sensational Six"—the biggest stars in the Disney universe. Though all six are non-human animals, Pluto alone is not dressed as a human. Because Pluto does not speak, his films generally rely on physical humor. This made Pluto a pioneering figure in character animation, which is expressing personality through animation rather than dialogue.
Due to his popularity and long history, billions of plastic figurines of Pluto have been made. This piece is old and worn and has lost its characteristic nose and ears, making it look similar to Donald Duck.
Due to his popularity and long history, billions of plastic figurines of Pluto have been made. This piece is old and worn and has lost its characteristic nose and ears, making it look similar to Donald Duck.
Pluto™ head
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
Hello Kitty is the mascot of Japan’s Sanrio Company. Hello Kitty was designed by Yuko Yamaguchi. The Sanrio Company’s catch phrase is “Small Gift, Big Smile” and they have been selling products for over 40 years. They believe that a gift is a way of expressing one’s heartfelt feelings for others. They design things from stationery, theme parks, retail stores, and animated television series. The company was established in the 1960’s. Sanrio has subsidiaries in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Brazil, and Europe. Billions of Hello Kitty plastic items exist.
Hello Kitty head
Gore Point, Alaska, 2013
This is the small plastic bulb inside dog squeak toys that make them squeak. Some believe the sound is similar to a dying small animal and that is what triggers dogs to like them, and so remove them from the toys so as not to encourage dog predation. Other dog owners have experienced near-fatal swallowing of the squeakers and warn consumers of the dangers of buying these for dogs.
squeak toy squeeze ball
Playa Jaco, Costa Rica, 2010
Astroturf is an artificial grass surface. AstroTurf is a brand of artificial turf although it is generally used as a generic description of any artificial turf. The original product was a short pile synthetic turf while the new products are made with antimicrobial protection, rubber infill, backing systems and nylon yarn fibers and plastic. It was co-invented by Donald L. Elbert, James M. Faria, and Robert T. Wright, who were employees of Monsanto Company, in 1965. In 1968, an AstroTurf facility opened in Dalton, Georgia. In 2013, Monsanto was voted the world’s most evil corporation.
There has been increasing concern with fraying AstroTurf being contaminated with lead that could cause health hazards. AstroTurf often includes bits of recycled tires among the turf blades to provide cushion.
There has been increasing concern with fraying AstroTurf being contaminated with lead that could cause health hazards. AstroTurf often includes bits of recycled tires among the turf blades to provide cushion.
Astroturf door mat
South Point, Hawaii, 2008
This is a tapered pipe plug. They come in endless colors and sizes. They keep dirt or other possible contamination out of pipes or propane cylinders and other vulnerable device openings. They are also easily lost and found on beaches all over the world.
purple hat
Playa Jaco, Costa Rica, 2009
Airsoft originated in Japan. Citizens were not allowed to own actual firearms but replica firearms were legal. Primarily used for target practice and eventually became a game. The concept of Airsoft gaming reached Europe and America in the early 1990’s. Tokyo Marui is the leading manufacturer of Airsoft guns, located in Japan. Another big manufacturer is CYMA Company located in China. These small plastic balls are similar in size and characteristic to nurdles and pose the same threats to human and animal health.
red airsoft ball
Chattahoochee River bank Atlanta, Georgia, 2009
tiny warrior head
South Point, Hawaii, 2006
Nurdle are pre-production micro plastic pellets, the raw material of new plastic. They are less than 5 millimeters in size and typically in the shape of a cylinder. In the US approximately 60 billion pounds of nurdles are produced on an annual basis. They are often spilt in transport and easily washed away, becoming an environmental hazard when they escape from containers or are spilled during shipment, escaping down all water vectors to the sea. They look like fish eggs and other food sources in the ocean and are ingested by many creatures, concentrating toxins that now have entered the human food chain.
nurdle
Witches Cave beach, Assos, Kefalonia, Greece, 2013
Manicure decals are plastic nail decorations that absorb the many hazardous chemicals in nail salons. Chemicals such as acetone, acetonitrile, formaldehyde, methacrylic acid, toluene, and many other chemicals are found in a nail salon. These chemicals can cause everything form headaches, dizziness, irritation to difficulty breathing, harm to unborn children, and damage to the liver and kidneys. Manicure decals are exposed to these chemicals.
When getting nails done, one should be cautious as to what adhesive substance is being used to stick decals on the nails. Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) is one adhesive substance that nail salons will you, but it is illegal and poisonous. It can cause damage to one’s lungs and damage your natural nails.
When getting nails done, one should be cautious as to what adhesive substance is being used to stick decals on the nails. Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) is one adhesive substance that nail salons will you, but it is illegal and poisonous. It can cause damage to one’s lungs and damage your natural nails.
manicure decal
Spree River bank, Berlin, Germany, 2012
Polystyrene is a petroleum-based plastic made from the styrene monomer. Most people know it under the name Styrofoam, which is actually the trade name of STYROFOAM. Dow is the company that invented STYROFOAM™ Brand Foam and is 100% made in the USA. STYROFOAM Brand Foam is only one of many generic foam products available including foam cups, coolers, meat trays, packing peanuts, packing foam and others. Styrene, a synthetic chemical found in Styrofoam has recently been added to a list of substances reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens."
Polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) is very brittle and easily breaks in to little pieces and is not easily recycled. New York City has considered banning foam containers and loose packaging because of its hazardous properties to the environment. The industry claims that they will have a way to recycle it by 2015 but it is not looking good. Many cities have already banned the use of Styrofoam containers.
Polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) is very brittle and easily breaks in to little pieces and is not easily recycled. New York City has considered banning foam containers and loose packaging because of its hazardous properties to the environment. The industry claims that they will have a way to recycle it by 2015 but it is not looking good. Many cities have already banned the use of Styrofoam containers.
Styrofoam ball
sea cave in Greece,
Cape Liakas, Kefalonia, 2011
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