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Global Study Identifies Major Aquatic Pollution Hotspots

Research highlights critical regions and the urgent need for improved waste management systems to combat escalating water pollution.

Map from the paper showing potential municipal solid waste (MSW)leakage in rivers in 2020. The hotspots of waste may only get worse in the future.
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Overview

  • The majority of waste leakage into aquatic environments occurs in Africa, China, India, and South Asia.
  • Mismanaged municipal solid waste, including plastics, is a primary contributor to this pollution.
  • Future waste generation is expected to increase significantly, exacerbating the problem.
  • A standardized framework for monitoring waste is essential for effective pollution control.
  • Global cooperation and comprehensive waste management strategies are crucial to address the crisis.