Are We Speaking the Same Language? Recommendations for a Definition and Categorization Framework for Plastic Debris

TLDR

Plastic litter accumulates worldwide, threatening economy, wildlife, and human health, yet no consensus exists on defining or categorizing plastic debris, leading to confusion and hindering progress. The authors aim to clarify what constitutes plastic debris by critically evaluating a unified terminology and proposing a definition and categorization framework while identifying remaining uncertainties. Their framework defines plastic debris using physico‑chemical properties—polymer composition, solid state, solubility—and classifies it by size, shape, color, and origin. The proposed framework is expected to foster consensus among scientists and regulators, providing a solid scientific basis for future research and mitigation.

Abstract

The accumulation of plastic litter in natural environments is a global issue. Concerns over potential negative impacts on the economy, wildlife, and human health provide strong incentives for improving the sustainable use of plastics. Despite the many voices raised on the issue, we lack a consensus on how to define and categorize plastic debris. This is evident for microplastics, where inconsistent size classes are used, and where the materials to be included are under debate. While this is inherent in an emerging research field, an ambiguous terminology results in confusion and miscommunication that may compromise progress in research and mitigation measures. Therefore, we need to be explicit on what exactly we consider plastic debris. Thus, we critically discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a unified terminology, propose a definition and categorization framework and highlight areas of uncertainty. Going beyond size classes, our framework includes physico-chemical properties (polymer composition, solid state, solubility) as defining criteria and size, shape, color, and origin as classifiers for categorization. Acknowledging the rapid evolution of our knowledge on plastic pollution, our framework will promote consensus-building within the scientific and regulatory community based on a solid scientific foundation.