The 2015 Eureka Prize finalists were announced today[Link will open in a new window], with CSIRO’s marine debris team a finalist for the Eureka Prize for Environmental Research.
Researchers from CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere[Link will open in a new window] used interdisciplinary research to understand the sources and distribution of marine debris, integrating field and laboratory studies with oceanographic and ecological modelling to assess its impacts on wildlife and evaluate possible policy responses. The team was able to translate scientific information into action by combining research with citizen science, outreach to government and media engagement that resulted in improved behaviours and more effective policy.
Plastic pollution in the ocean is a major global threat to marine ecosystems and species. Over 8.4 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean each year, with impacts documented on nearly 700 species. However, despite the recognition that plastic pollution is a potential major ecological threat, prior to CSIRO’s national marine debris project, little was known about its sources, distribution, and impact on wildlife in Australia.
The three-year study sampled 35,000 km of coastline and 11,000 nautical miles of oceans. It was the world's largest collection of marine debris information, and identified Australia's coastal rubbish is mainly plastic from Australian sources.
The project engaged nearly 7000 young Australians through citizen science engagement, driving behavioural change through direct participation in the research. Through social, electronic, print media, radio and television, the team has reached more than 20 million people domestically and overseas to help influence attitudes and understanding of individual impact on the environment.
The research was part of TeachWild, a national research and education program developed by Earthwatch Australia in partnership with CSIRO and Shell Australia’s National Social Investment Program.
CSIRO’s Dr Lisa Harvey-Smith, from Astronomy and Space Science is also a finalist in the Eureka Awards, in the category for Promoting Understanding of Australian Science Research.
More information
CSIRO's marine debris research[Link will open in a new window]