Plastics are important materials, and the demand for and the consumption of plastic has been increasing for years. When plastics enter the environment, they can cause great damage to both ecosystems and living organisms. Meanwhile, plastics are found in oceans, rivers, lakes, and soil. The main reason for the global flood of plastic in the environment is a lack of, or inadequate, waste and wastewater management.
This report explains what plastics are and the methods used to study and measure them in the environment. It shows their presence in the waters, soil, air, and seas of Germany and what impact this has on ecosystems. The report identifies areas in which there is still insufficient data and a need for research as well as measures to lastingly reduce plastic inputs to the environment in Germany and improve the state of the environment.