Mitsui O.S.K Lines (MOL) Ltd. announced a new microplastic (MP) collection device developed in collaboration with Miura Co. Ltd. This device is capable of collecting wasted microplastics in the ocean when towed behind a vessel. The MP collection device works by straining microplastics out of concentrated seawater. It achieves this by continually drawing in seawater, which flows through a strainer and a pump that separates the plastics from the water before releasing the water back into the ocean. This process continually operates while the vessel is in motion.
Currently, MOL is researching the number of microplastics collected by this towing device in terms of treatment capacity, amounts, regions, component lifespan, and more. This data helps the company ascertain the scalability and viability of the MP collection device as a larger-scale tool in capturing oceanic pollution.
Microplastic Collection Devices
Mitsui O.S.K Ltd. and Miura Co. Unveiled an MP Collection Device
Trend Themes
1. Microplastic Collection - Innovative devices capable of capturing microplastics from seawater through strainers and pumps while vessels are in motion.
2. Oceanic Pollution Reduction - Technologies that reduce the amount of plastics and other debris in the oceans and subsequently improve marine ecosystem health.
3. Sustainable Waste Management - Innovative systems that manage waste in a more sustainable manner, such as capturing and recycling microplastics instead of allowing them to pollute ocean environments.
Industry Implications
1. Maritime - The maritime industry could benefit from the implementation of microplastic collection devices on vessels to reduce oceanic pollution generated from shipping.
2. Environmental Services - Environmental service companies could leverage microplastic collection devices to capture and recycle microplastics in the ocean and offer this as a service to clients looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
3. Waste Management - Waste management companies could explore the use of microplastic collection devices as an innovative solution to managing plastic waste in both marine and land environments.