Addressing the Plastic Pollution Crisis and Its Impact on Marine Life

Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing and serious environmental issues of our time. It negatively impacts not only the ecosystem and wildlife but also marine life and human health. The adverse effects of plastic pollution is reducing our ecosystems’ capacity to adapt to climate change and produce food.

In 2024 alone, 220 million tons of plastic trash will be produced. Beneath the waters we cherish lies a vast floating landfill containing millions of tons of debris and most of it plastic. As responsible citizens of the planet, we must recognise the far-reaching dangers of the global plastic pollution crisis and the effective solutions to plastic pollution mitigation. 

The Global Plastic Pollution Crisis

The world has seen a steady rise in plastic production since the 1970s. If current trends persist, global production of primary plastic is projected to reach 1,100 million tonnes by 2050 as per the UN Environment Programme. An IUCN study also reveals that approximately 460 million metric tons of plastic is processed annually.

About half of this plastic is designed for single-use purposes, such as packaging, bottles, and straws. Unfortunately, only a fraction of this plastic is recycled, while vast amounts are in landfills, rivers, and oceans.

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is situated between Hawaii and California, is one of the largest accumulation zones for ocean plastic, containing over 1.8 trillion pieces of debris. However, plastic pollution is not confined to the oceans; it infiltrates rivers, forests, and urban areas too.

Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life

Microplastics are small plastic particles, which are so widespread that they can be found in even the most isolated areas of the planet. Other contributors to plastic pollution include:

• Single-Use Plastics: These are items like carry bags and straws that are produced for single use.
• Packaging Waste: It includes bubble wrap and unrecyclable materials.
• Synthetic Fibres: These include nylon and polyester shedding microplastics that add more to plastic pollution.
• Consumer Products: FMCG and household goods packaging that are disposed of improperly.

Additionally, as plastics break down into microplastics, they can be ingested by marine organisms. This potentially affects the food web and highlights the growing environmental impact of plastic on marine life.

Specific Impacts on Marine Life

The multitude of life thriving in the depths of our oceans is falling victim to the insidious effects of plastic waste. Plastic pollution jeopardises the delicate balance of marine ecosystems by introducing harmful toxins. Our oceans already contain between 75 and 199 million tons of plastic waste. Marine life is adversely affected by plastic pollution in several ways:

• Ingestion: Marine creatures often mistake plastic debris for natural prey. Bigger creatures that filter feed consume large quantities of water, ingesting food along with microplastics.
• Oxygen Depletion: The accumulation of plastic in ocean waters blocks sunlight from reaching phytoplankton, reducing oxygen levels vital for marine life.
• Entanglement: Turtles, fish, seals, and dolphins are often found trapped in discarded fishing nets, ropes, and other debris that leads to wounds, infections, or even amputations.

Long-Term Consequences for Marine Diversity and Ecosystems

The long-term effects of plastic on ocean life are increasingly evident. Plastic debris covers ocean beds, coral reefs, and seagrass, diminishing the health of these ecosystems. Ingestion and entanglement can lead to population declines and extinction of vulnerable species, resulting in significant biodiversity loss.

This decline has serious repercussions for communities that depend on the ocean for food. To address the harm caused by marine plastic pollution, we need to find practical ways to cut down on plastic use.

Ways to Reduce Plastic Usage

Here are some practical solutions to plastic pollution mitigation and effective ways to reduce plastic usage:

• Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Minimise disposable plastic items like cutlery and straws by opting for reusable alternatives. These alternatives include stainless steel coffee cups, glass bottles, silicone or bamboo straws, cloth napkins, and sustainable packaging.
• Pick Reusable Bags: Skip the plastic bags and carry your own reusable ones. Natural cotton, canvas, and jute bags are durable alternatives to disposable plastic bags.
• Support Plastic-Free Initiatives: Get involved in campaigns that promote a circular economy and contribute to the cause. The Zero Plastic Waste Initiative is a global movement focused on reducing plastic usage.
• Advocate for Policy Change: Stay informed about plastic pollution prevention so you can educate friends and neighbours. Host workshops or seminars and engage with government officials to advocate for change. Plastic pollution awareness has many positive effects on our environment and well-being.

Benefits of Reducing Plastic Usage

Here are the top benefits of reducing plastic usage:

• Environmental Benefits: Reducing plastic waste in oceans helps restore marine life and preserve habitats while also lowering greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate climate change.
• Health Benefits: Microplastics that leach into surrounding water bodies can contaminate our food and beverages. Reducing plastic waste decreases exposure to these harmful toxins.
• Economic Benefits: Choosing to reduce plastic promotes businesses with sustainable practices, creates new jobs, and lowers the costs of producing and disposing of plastic materials.

Conclusion

The fight against plastic pollution hinges on the choices we make today. Taking efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic will help to create a sustainable future where ecosystems can thrive. We can reclaim the power to reverse this trend, restore our planet’s health, and revitalise the oceans. After all, the future of our oceans relies on our willingness to act for the environment’s well-being.