Plastic persists for a very long time, especially in cold habitats, like here on Svalbard. Now it has been discovered that cold-adapted microorganisms also produce enzymes that can break down plastic. In large parts of the Arctic, however, it would still be too cold....
The extensions of the Gulf Stream not only bring the last remnants of tropical warmth to the west coast beaches of Svalbard, but also vast amounts of garbage, especially plastic. Arctic animals eat the pieces, injure themselves on them or get caught in them and...
Microplastics have already been detected in sea ice and on the sea floor in Antarctica. The two Swiss scientists will find out whether this Antarctic fish – Triperophycis gilchristi (Grenadier cod) – has ingested the small particles. Photo: Kevin...
The dark deposits on the Greenland ice sheet are fine sediments on the one hand and signs of our modern way of life on the other. Among other things, micro- and nanoplastic particles, including tire wear and fibers from clothing, are transported by wind and water to...
On February 6, 1996, the Ukrainian flag was hoisted for the first time and the British Faraday Station was renamed “Akademik Vernadsky”, and handed over to Ukraine. (Photo: UAC) With the support of Coca-Cola, a plastic recycling plant was installed at the...