Easter Island Faces Plastic Pollution Crisis

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is facing a severe plastic pollution crisis, with municipal data indicating it receives 50 times more plastic and microplastics than the coasts of Chile due to its location in the South Pacific Gyre. Marine biologist Moiko Pakomio emphasizes that most microplastics originate from fishing vessels that discharge waste into the ocean, which then degrades into microplastics affecting local marine life, including sea urchins consumed by residents. Mayor Pedro Edmunds highlights that 58% of the plastic waste affecting the island comes from mainland Chile and is calling for global action to reduce plastic pollution. Edmunds is actively campaigning against this issue and is seeking an agreement with South Korea to limit the use of plastic polymers. The situation poses a significant threat to the island's food sources and overall ecosystem, with microplastics infiltrating the food chain. Local efforts are underway to address this urgent environmental challenge.