| Summary: | This is chapter 6 of the State of Environmental Science in Svalbard (SESS) report 2023. Microplastics, tiny plastic fragments (<5mm), have emerged as a global concern, infiltrating even the most remote regions such as Svalbard. The surge in plastic production has led to widespread contamination. Svalbard, like the broader Arctic region, is already contending with issues related to climate change, pollution, and invasive species, and it now faces an additional risk in the form of microplastics. Recent studies conducted in Svalbard have advanced our understanding of microplastics in seawater, sediment, algae, fulmars and walruses. Ongoing monitoring indicates that microplastics could potentially be harmful to the Svalbard environment over extended periods. It is imperative to maintain a comprehensive grasp of the status of microplastics and adopt a proactive approach. This is crucial for assessing and conveying the significance of prevention and reduction efforts targeting plastic pollution in the Arctic. It serves as a rallying call for all of us to reduce our plastic consumption and seek sustainable alternatives whenever feasible. Each small effort we make can contribute significantly to a reduction in microplastic pollution.
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