Mar 30 (NHK) - A survey by an environmental group has found microplastics in 98 out of 100 locations in Japanese rivers and ports. Small pieces of plastic are a potential threat to ecosystems.
Members of Pirika Association and university researchers examined water samples from rivers, ports, and a lake in 12 prefectures to see if they contain plastic particles that are 5 millimeters or smaller.
The team says they detected fragments from artificial turf, minute capsules for agricultural fertilizer, and plastic ropes and sheets.
The association's Executive Director Fujio Kojima says the survey shows that plastic products used in various industries turn into microplastics even before they reach the ocean.
The group plans to conduct further research and discuss possible solutions to the issue with companies and local governments.
