Study Exposes Ship Paints as Significant Source of Ocean Microplastics

A groundbreaking study published in October 2025 has uncovered a potentially massive source of microplastics polluting the world's oceans: ship paints. The research, conducted by a team from the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology and the University of Science and Technology of Daejeon, found that marine coatings designed to withstand the sea's salinity are a notable contributor to the growing microplastics problem.

According to the study, an estimated 11,270 metric tons of microplastics are introduced into the oceans each year from ship paints. This represents a significant yet largely overlooked source of this form of plastic pollution, which has been accumulating in the environment for decades. The authors note that while commercial vessels, particularly fishing boats, are known to lose up to a million tons of plastic gear at sea annually, the external impact of ship paints has remained relatively underexplored.

The researchers used advanced analysis techniques, including infrared light analysis and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, to identify and quantify the potential scale of this issue. Their findings underscore the need for further investigation into ship paint-derived microplastics, which the authors argue have likely led to an underestimation of the environmental impact of this pervasive form of pollution.

The study's revelations come as microplastics continue to be detected in virtually every corner of the planet, contaminating water, soil, food, and even the air we breathe. Exposure to these tiny plastic particles has been linked to a range of health concerns, from vascular damage and cognitive issues to the development of certain cancers. As the global plastic crisis intensifies, this new research highlights the importance of addressing all potential sources of microplastics to mitigate their devastating impact on the environment and human well-being.