New study found microplastic in every sea turtle examined.

University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory, along with Greenpeace Research Laboratories examined more than a 100 sea turtles of all seven species across the Atlantic, Pacific and Mediterranean Oceans. The research was carried out to look for any synthetic particles as well as microparticles in the bodies of 102 turtles. The result was abominable.

More than 800 synthetic particles were found in the turtles when only a part of each animal's gut was tested. It is assumed that the true number of particles is estimated 20 times higher the result if not only a part of the gut would have been tested.

The most common synthetic particles was fibre, which can potentially come from sources including clothing, cigarette filters, tyres and maritime equipment such as fishnets. Although the effect of these particles on the turtles is yet unknown, says Dr. Emily Duncan since the particles size can easily pass through their gut without causing any fatal damage, ''Future work should focus on whether microplastics may be affecting aquatic organisms more subtly.'' Despite that not enough research has yet been carried out the risk factors are that these synthetic particles may possibly carry contaminants, bacteria or viruses. Synthetic Particles may also effect the turtle at a cellular or subcellular level.

The turtles with the most synthetic particles were in the Mediterranean. Although the research was successful Dr. Penelope Lindeque claimed that  ''it does not feel like a success to have found microplastic in the gut of every single turtle we have investigated.'' The issue is more alarming because throughout their years of research scientists found microplastic in each and every marine animal examined. 

Where do we draw the line?

Our society's addiction to throw away plastic is fuelling a global environmental crisis that must be tackled as source. Together, we can hep reduce the amount of plastic waste released to our seas and maintain clean, healthy and productive oceans for our future generations. 

Our Oceans are turning into plastic. Are we?