Researchers at Australia's Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) have developed a satellite imaging tool capable of detecting the presence of plastic material on beaches from altitudes of over 600 km. This technology could play a vital role in combating the proliferation of this type of waste, which is invading oceans and shorelines worldwide.
While satellites can already be used to determine the extent of pollution at sea and track its evolution, the detection of plastics on shorelines remains much more tricky. In fact, the smallest pieces can easily blend in with the sand. However, a new method developed by RMIT researchers could change the game.
