Statistics on marine litter leave no doubt about the seriousness of this problem which affects all the world’s oceans. About 80% of marine litter has a terrestrial origin and only ended up in the sea because it was not properly disposed of. It is estimated that 80% of marine litter is plastic and that, of these, 40% are disposable plastics. The top three single-use plastic items are plastic bottles and caps; cigarette butts and cotton buds. Snack packs, intimate hygiene products, plastic bags and straws are also very common. What should be done to minimise this problem?