Observations of trash in the deep tropical Atlantic and Caribbean Sea Marine Pollution Bulletin

Evidence of anthropogenic impacts on deep-ocean systems is frequently observed, even upon the first explorations of these remote environments. One of these impacts comes from marine debris, trash that is dumped or transported into the deep ocean. Understanding the abundance and distribution of marine debris is critical to identifying holistic changes and feedbacks that influence the health and sustainability of ocean ecosystems. Here, we document widespread plastic, metal, and glass debris in deep waters of the tropical Atlantic and Caribbean Sea, observed by remotely operated and human occupied submersibles. Trash was observed from depths 250 to >6000 m. A total of 139 pieces of debris were found, including a ladder, clothing, cans, cutlery, single-use sauce packages, and a parachute. These findings further illustrate the extent of debris pollution in deep waters and the need to understand the impact of debris pollution on sustainability in Earth's largest habitat. Grant no. NA21OAR0110202