The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Exeter and the Plymouth Marine Laboratory . The researchers examined the bodies of more than 100 sea turtles of the seven species . Atlantic, Pacific and Mediterranean turtles were included in the studies. The researchers found more than 800 synthetic particles in the turtles' gut . They estimate that the actual number of particles in the turtle's body could be 20 times that amount. "This study provides further evidence that we all need to help reduce the amount of plastic waste released into our seas and keep the oceans clean, healthy and productive for future generations," Pennie Lindeque of the Plymouth Marine Laboratory told CNN .
The most found materials were pieces of tires, cigarettes, clothing and marine equipment. It is estimated that there are more than 5 billion pieces of plastic in the world's surface waters.
