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How circulation patterns of surface currents could help clean the Great Pacific Garbage Patch


Published on 2025-03-18 17:02:36 - MSN
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  • A study published in Ocean Science has analyzed surface currents as observed from satellites to identify regions that
  • due to their circulation patterns
  • attract objects drifting nearby into large garbage patches. "With this information, we can let the ...

The article from MSN discusses how understanding the circulation patterns of surface currents in the ocean could aid in cleaning up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP). The GPGP, a massive accumulation of marine debris in the North Pacific Ocean, is influenced by large, rotating ocean currents known as gyres. Researchers are studying these currents to develop strategies for removing plastic waste more effectively. By mapping and predicting the movement of these currents, scientists can deploy cleanup technologies like floating barriers or autonomous vessels in optimal locations to intercept and collect debris. The article highlights ongoing projects and technologies, such as The Ocean Cleanup's system, which uses these natural ocean flows to concentrate and then extract plastics from the water. This approach not only aims to reduce the size of the GPGP but also to prevent further accumulation by understanding how debris enters and moves within these gyres.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/how-circulation-patterns-of-surface-currents-could-help-clean-the-great-pacific-garbage-patch/ar-AA1BbmPS ]