Slovakian Scientist Exposes Dangers of Ocean Plastic Pollution

Bratislava, Slovakia – To commemorate World Water Day, UPF-Slovakia organized an informative evening program on March 21, 2025, about a growing threat to the maritime ecosystem: plastic waste. Currently 150 million tons of this waste float in our oceans, but sustainable solutions are still pending.

Guest speaker Mr. Radovan Dobrovodský stunned the audience with his use of videos and graphics to demonstrate the huge impact and dangers microplastics pose to ecosystems, human health and our climate. On a hopeful note, Mr. Dobrovodský, who is a member of the ALLATRA Climate Change and Technologies group, introduced new technologies for safe recycling which can help restore the balance of the oceans.

The program was enriched by passages from the autobiography of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, expressing his passionate love for the ocean, read by Ms. Dorota Šimeková.

Ms. Barbara Grabner presented pictures illustrating the impact of plastic waste on maritime life and commented: “Many animals mistake plastic for food. For example, turtles view plastic gloves as jellyfish. Slovakia must also bear responsibility since rivers are the main source of plastic waste in the oceans.” All plastics take a long time to decompose – from 20 years for a plastic bag to 200 years for a can, and up to 450 years for a bottle.

“We learned a lot about the function of the oceans, the consequences of plastic pollution that prevent them from fulfilling their true role, and forthcoming solutions,” concluded Mr. Miloš Klas, president of UPF-Slovakia, who moderated the event.

The presentation gave the audience much to consider and conversation continued over drinks and homemade specialties. Partners from MSH ALLATRA and the Creative Society contributed to the success of the evening.

By UPF-Slovakia staff March 21, 2025