Explosion in Plastic Pollution Post-World War II Seen in Marine Sediments
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 4 September 2019
Plastic fragments in Santa Barbara Basin sediments have doubled every 15 years since WWII, reflecting global production and coastal growth. Mostly fibers, later mixed with bag fragments, mark the Anthropocene’s “Great Acceleration.”
Keywords: microplastics, sediments, Anthropocene, pollution, Scripps
Early Results Suggest California Marine Protected Areas are a Success
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 5 September 2019
California’s 124 MPAs, covering 16% of state waters, show more and larger marine life, with spillover benefits to nearby fishing areas. Strong funding, enforcement, and collaboration make it a global model for effective ocean conservation.
Keywords: MPAs, California, marine life, conservation, spillover, enforcement
Scientists Find Key Changes in Gray Whale Migration Routes off Southern California
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Published: 5 September 2019
A Scripps study found more gray whales migrating closer to Southern California’s coast, raising risks from ships, fishing gear, and pollution. Migration timing is linked to whales’ biological clocks rather than environmental changes.
Keywords: gray whales, migration, nearshore, Scripps, biological clock, marine risks
