Plastics in the ocean

However, the indiscriminate disposal of plastic products has led to a significant increase in plastic pollution, especially in the ocean. The impact of plastics in the ocean has become a growing concern for the environment, marine life, and human health. One of the primary impacts of plastics in the ocean is the harm it causes to marine life. Plastic debris can be mistaken for food by marine animals, leading to ingestion and suffocation. Marine animals such as sea turtles, whales, and seabirds have been found with plastic in their stomachs, causing digestive problems and, in severe cases, death. The ingestion of plastics also leads to the bioaccumulation of toxins, which can affect the entire food chain.

Plastic pollution also affects the physical and chemical properties of the ocean. Plastics that are not biodegradable accumulate in the ocean, leading to the formation of plastic islands. These plastic islands can alter ocean currents, leading to the entrapment of marine animals, and create a hazard for marine vessels. Moreover, the chemical properties of plastics can affect the pH and oxygen levels in the ocean, leading to a disturbance of the ecosystem.