Plastúrgangi

Plastúrgangi, a term of Icelandic origin, translates literally to "plastic walks" or "plastic journeys." It describes the phenomenon of plastic debris being transported by ocean currents and deposited on shorelines. This global issue involves the accumulation of various plastic items, from single-use packaging to larger fragments, on beaches and coastal areas worldwide. The longevity of plastic means that these items can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, breaking down into smaller microplastics that pose further ecological risks.

The movement of plastúrgangi is driven by prevailing wind patterns and oceanographic processes. Major ocean gyres, vast systems of circulating ocean currents, play a significant role in concentrating plastic pollution in specific areas, which then can be transported to coastlines. Coastal currents and tides also contribute to the deposition of these materials. The presence of plastúrgangi is a visible indicator of the pervasive problem of plastic pollution and its impact on marine ecosystems and terrestrial environments adjacent to the sea. Addressing plastúrgangi involves efforts to reduce plastic production and consumption, improve waste management, and undertake cleanup initiatives.