Plastics in the Sea

Gripping, authoritative, and urgently relevant, Plastics in the Sea by Sandra E. Shumway and J. Evan Ward examines how plastics transform marine environments around the world and what that means for ecosystems, economies, and human health.

This illuminating volume synthesizes decades of research into clear, accessible chapters that explain the journey of plastics—from sources on land and at sea to their breakdown into microplastics, transport by currents, and accumulation in hotspots such as the North Pacific Gyre, the Mediterranean, coastal estuaries, and polar waters. Richly contextualized for readers in North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond, the book balances rigorous science with practical implications for coastal communities, fisheries, tourism, and public policy.

Readers will find evidence-based discussions of ecological impacts on plankton, shellfish, seabirds, and marine mammals, together with emerging findings on human exposure pathways and seafood safety. The authors translate complex monitoring techniques, laboratory experiments, and field surveys into actionable insights for researchers, environmental managers, students, and concerned citizens.

Why this book matters: it pairs academic credibility with real-world relevance, making it an essential reference for anyone tackling marine pollution, ocean plastics, and sustainable coastal management. Thoughtful case studies and clear graphics help readers understand both global patterns and localized solutions—cleanup strategies, prevention policies, and community-based interventions.

Informative, readable, and timely, Plastics in the Sea by Sandra E. Shumway and J. Evan Ward is the go-to resource for understanding—and acting on—the plastics crisis in our oceans. Order your copy today to stay informed and become part of the solution.

Note: eBooks do not include supplementary materials such as CDs, access codes, etc.