waste under the sea

Plastic Pollution

What is Plastic Pollution?
According to the Wikipedia, Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic objects and particles (e.g. plastic bottles, bags and microbeads) in the Earth's environment that adversely affects humans, wildlife and their habitat. Plastics that act as pollutants are categorized by size into micro-, meso-, or macro debris. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastic_pollution

Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment,
causing harm to wildlife, ecosystems, and human health. It is a major environmental issue because plastic is non-biodegradable, meaning it
does not break down naturally like organic materials. Instead, it fragments into tiny pieces called microplastics,
which contaminate soil, water, and even the air. Plastic waste often ends up in oceans, where it poses a deadly threat to marine
life through ingestion and entanglement. Birds, fish, and other animals mistake plastic for food, leading to fatal consequences.
Additionally, plastic production releases toxic chemicals and greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change. Most plastic
pollution comes from single-use items like bottles, bags, and packaging, which are discarded after one use.

Marine animals often mistake plastic debris for food,
leading to starvation, internal injuries, or poisoning from toxic chemicals. Many species, including sea turtles,
seabirds, and fish, suffer from blockages in their digestive systems, ultimately causing death. Additionally,
plastic waste disrupts entire ecosystems, affecting food chains and threatening biodiversity. It harms not only
wildlife but also the delicate balance of nature by polluting habitats such as coral reefs, wetlands, and
coastal areas. As plastic continues to accumulate in oceans, rivers, and landfills, its long-term impact
remains a growing concern for the planet. Microplastics, which result from the breakdown of larger plastic items,
infiltrate water sources and soil, affecting both aquatic and terrestrial life. These tiny particles can even enter
the human food chain, posing potential health risks. With millions of tons of plastic produced each year, the problem
worsens, further endangering ecosystems and the future of our environment.