January 16, 2024
An unusual type of rock formed from man-made plastic has been discovered in 11 countries across the world. These rocks form through numerous mechanisms and are known by a variety of names including ‘plastistones’, ‘plastitar’ and ‘plasticrust’. According to researchers, plastic substances in the ocean get stuck to rocks due to wave movements, leading to the formation of plastic rocks. Chemical bonding between rock and plastic substances caused by solar irradiation is another method by which these rocks form. Plastic rocks have been discovered inland as well as on the coasts of many countries including Japan, Brazil, India and China. According to researchers, the number of these rocks will continue to rise over time due to the growing influence of humans on the environment.
DID YOU KNOW?
Around 73% of the litter on beaches around the world is plastic.
Image Source: wikipedia.org
