Understanding of Floating Marine Litter Distribution in the NOWPAP Region - MERRAC Technical Report No. 35

This report from a regional marine environmental emergency response center provides an analysis of floating marine litter distribution in the Northwest Pacific region. Drawing on extensive monitoring data collected from 2007 to 2015 across China, Japan, Korea, and Russia, it details the composition, sources, and seasonal variations of marine debris, with a particular focus on plastics such as bottles, bags, and fishing gear. The report leverages satellite data and ocean current modeling to trace the transboundary movement of litter influenced by prominent currents like the Kuroshio and Tsushima. Highlighting hotspots along coastlines and the role of land-based versus sea-based origins, it underscores the challenges of accurate measurement at sea and on beaches through innovative aerial photography and particle tracking models. The findings emphasize the critical need for ongoing regional cooperation, advanced numerical modeling, and strengthened monitoring.