Global Plastic Watch

Global Plastic Watch (GPW) https://globalplasticwatch.org/

Global Plastic Watch project is an innovative initiative designed to map and track 
plastic pollution across the globe, primarily focusing on plastic waste hotspots. It uses
advanced satellite imagery and artificial intelligence (AI) to detect plastic waste sites,
especially those near water bodies and coastal areas, which are significant 
contributors to ocean plastic pollution.
Key Features of the Global Plastic Watch (GPW) Project:
• Satellite-Based Detection: GPW uses high-resolution satellite imagery from 
platforms like Planet Labs and European Space Agency (ESA) to monitor 
and map large areas of land, including remote regions. The images are 
analyzed using machine learning algorithms to identify potential plastic waste 
sites. This allows for detecting illegal or unregulated dumpsites that might 
otherwise go unnoticed.
• AI and Machine Learning Integration: The project leverages AI and 
machine learning models trained to recognize plastic waste from satellite 
images. These models are continuously improved as more data is gathered, 
allowing for better identification of plastic accumulation areas over time.
• Global Coverage: The platform provides global coverage, making it one of 
the most extensive tools for detecting plastic pollution hotspots across 
continents. Its focus includes both urban and remote regions, particularly in 
developing countries, where plastic waste management infrastructure might be 
lacking.
• Real-Time Monitoring: GPW allows for real-time or near-real-time 
monitoring of plastic waste sites. This enables rapid response from 
governments, NGOs, and environmental agencies when new illegal dumpsites 
are detected or when existing ones grow.
• Publicly Accessible Data: One of the unique aspects of GPW is its 
commitment to open data. The platform provides free access to its maps and 
findings, making it easier for policymakers, environmental organizations, and 
the general public to take action against plastic pollution. The interactive maps 
allow users to zoom in on specific regions and see identified plastic pollution 
sites.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: GPW collaborates with a wide range of 
partners, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations 
(NGOs), academic institutions, and private-sector companies. These 
partnerships help amplify the project’s impact by combining technology with 
on-the-ground efforts to address the root causes of plastic waste.
• Impact on Policy and Advocacy: The data generated by GPW can inform 
policy decisions and regulatory efforts to combat plastic pollution. By 
providing clear evidence of where plastic waste is accumulating, governments 
can implement targeted waste management policies, improve recycling 
infrastructure, and enforce stricter regulations on illegal dumping.
• Focusing on River and Coastal Regions: GPW places particular emphasis on 
rivers and coastal regions, which are major pathways through which plastic 
enters the oceans. By identifying plastic waste in these areas, the project can 
help mitigate the flow of plastic into marine ecosystems, where it causes 
significant harm to wildlife and human health.
Goals of the Global Plastic Watch Project:
• Reduce Plastic Pollution: By identifying and tracking plastic waste sites 
globally, the GPW project aims to significantly reduce plastic pollution, 
particularly in areas that contribute heavily to marine plastic.
• Support Governments and Local Communities: The project provides 
actionable data to governments, local authorities, and environmental 
organizations, helping them implement effective waste management practices.
• Raise Awareness: GPW’s public platform helps raise awareness about the 
global plastic waste crisis, inspiring both local and international efforts to 
address the issue.
How to Access GPW:
The Global Plastic Watch platform can be accessed via its official website, where 
users can explore the interactive map of plastic waste sites globally. It is designed to 
be user-friendly, allowing anyone from environmentalists to policymakers to use the 
data for research and action.
Example Applications:
• Local Action: Local governments can use the data to identify illegal dumping 
sites and improve waste collection and recycling infrastructure.
• Research: Environmental scientists and researchers can study the extent and 
trends of plastic pollution across various regions.
• NGO Activism: NGOs focused on environmental protection can use the 
platform to identify plastic pollution hotspots and advocate for cleanup efforts.