Ocean bacteria team up to break down biodegradable plastic
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Published: 16 March 2026
MIT researchers showed how individual ocean bacteria cooperate to break down biodegradable plastic, with one microbe cleaving the polymer and others consuming each chemical component.
Keywords: biodegradable plastic, ocean bacteria, microbial degradation, marine pollution, bioplastics, plastic decomposition, marine microbes
Human-Made Chemicals Found Throughout Ocean Environments
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 16 March 2026
Analysis of 2,300+ seawater samples found 248 human-derived compounds widespread in marine environments, with plasticizers, UV filters, and synthetic fragrances the most prevalent pollutants.
Keywords: ocean pollution, marine chemistry, plasticizers, pharmaceuticals, seawater contamination, coastal pollution, xenobiotics
Review of the impacts of deep-sea mining highlights the risk of biodiversity loss in unique ecosystems
National Oceanography Centre
Published: 4 May 2026
A comprehensive 50-year data review reveals deep-sea mining poses significant biodiversity risks, with mining at hydrothermal vents and seamounts found incompatible with conservation policies.
Keywords: deep-sea mining, biodiversity loss, polymetallic nodules, hydrothermal vents, abyssal plains, marine ecosystems, conservation
