Most ocean plastic waste originates from China.

According to a Condor Ferries report, approximately 12.7 million tons of plastic waste enter the ocean annually. Of this amount, approximately 3.53 million tons, or 29%, originates from China.

Other Asian countries also contribute significantly to the problem, accounting for 21% of ocean plastic waste. Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka are among the Asian nations making substantial contributions.

European countries follow, contributing 19% of ocean plastic waste. Ireland and Luxembourg are among the largest contributors in Europe.

The United States, Canada, and Mexico, members of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), contribute 18% of ocean plastic waste. A further 7% originates from Middle Eastern and African countries.

Latin American countries account for 4% of ocean plastic waste. The remaining 2% is attributed to other countries.

Plastic waste kills over 1 million seabirds and 100,000 marine mammals annually. 700 species of marine animals are threatened with extinction due to plastic waste.

Particles within plastic waste are also dangerous to humans. This is because humans consume fish and other marine animals that have ingested toxic particles from plastic waste.