We focus our efforts on generating a better understanding of the problem of marine plastic pollution from fishing operations and its impact on the biodiversity of the Patagonian Sea, as well as promoting comprehensive solutions to prevent it.
It is estimated that between 4.8 and 12.7 million tons of plastic end up in the oceans every year. By 2050, according to estimates from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the oceans could contain more plastic than fish.
Global plastic production skyrocketed from 2 million tons in 1950 to 348 million tons in 2017, and it is expected to double by 2040, according to estimates from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP).
As they are derived from petroleum, plastics are composed of hydrocarbon molecules that form polymers, which remain in the water, gradually breaking down into microplastics (particles smaller than 4 millimeters). These microplastics can be ingested by numerous living organisms (including humans).
Their negative effects across the entire food chain are the subject of an increasing number of studies worldwide.
In addition to molecules and polymers, plastics contain additives in their composition that have effects on human health, such as “endocrine disruptors” (substances that interfere with hormone function), causing hormonal and reproductive disorders, and some are carcinogenic.
The amount of marine waste in coastal areas, surface waters, the water column, and the seabed of the Patagonian Sea is increasing, to the detriment of ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health.
Globally, estimates indicate that 20% of the plastics in the oceans originate from fishing and other maritime activities. In the case of fishing, these plastics come from abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear and from improper waste management on vessels.
The amount of plastic waste generated by the commercial fishing industry has doubled in the past 50 years, increasing from 340,000 to 640,000 tons annually.
The most frequently documented impacts of plastic pollution are entanglement and ingestion of macroplastics. Species of marine vertebrates—particularly turtles, birds, and mammals—ingest plastic waste, leading to malnutrition, muscular problems, diseases, and higher mortality rates. Birds, sea lions, fish, turtles, and cetaceans become entangled in plastic debris, suffering severe injuries and death.
In the case of the Franciscana dolphin, which inhabits the coastal areas of Buenos Aires, dead specimens have been found, and autopsies revealed that they had ingested plastic bags, cellophane, fishing lines (monofilament), and fragments of ropes and nets.
Additionally, South American sea lions—characteristic of the southern coast of Brazil and northern Argentina—have been found dead due to entanglement in fishing lines or plastic bags. The Southern Right Whale and elephant seals from the Patagonian coast of Argentina are also affected by entanglement and ingestion of fishing lines, plastic bags, nets, and “potter” traps (used for squid fishing).
As for birds, plastic impacts albatrosses, petrels, seagulls, and penguins through ingestion, entanglement, and the poisoning of their chicks when using plastics to build their nests.
Moreover, plastic waste poses a deadly threat to marine turtles and fish such as silversides, croakers, and clams, as well as plankton, through strangulation and the ingestion of microplastics.
For all these reasons, from the outset, the Forum for the Conservation of the Patagonian Sea and its Surrounding Areas has worked to prevent plastic pollution in fisheries and reduce its impact on the biodiversity of the Patagonian Sea. This includes continuous training for the fishing sector, organizing beach and coastal clean-ups, and promoting sustainable marine resource management in line with the circular economy.
Knowledge
We generate up-to-date diagnostics on the causes and impacts of marine pollution from plastics originating from fishing operations in the Patagonian Sea.
Strengthening
We provide technical advice to strengthen regulatory frameworks. We support training for the fishing sector on best practices for waste management. We promote the development of effective waste removal protocols for fishing-related debris.
Solutions
We promote the development of adequate infrastructure for managing fishing waste in regional ports. We encourage collaboration between institutions and the development of initiatives that promote a circular economy.
The collaborative network is fundamental among the member organizations of the Forum and is a key component of the success of the Plastic Pollution Working Group.
Foro
Por miembros, financiamiento, donaciones, o ante cualquier consulta por favor comuníquese con:
Andrea Michelson, Coordinadora
© 2025 Foro para la Conservación del Mar Patagónico y Áreas de Influencia.
