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The Potential Impact of Climate Change on the Diffusion of Plastic Waste in the Ocean

International Journal of Marine Science 2024 1 citation

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This study reviewed how climate change directly impacts the marine environment - through rising temperatures, altered ocean circulation, and acidification - in ways that affect the spread of plastic waste. Changes in ocean currents, extreme weather events, and sea level rise were found to redistribute plastic debris and accelerate fragmentation into microplastics.

Study Type Environmental

In recent years, global climate change and marine plastic pollution have become serious threats to the Earth's ecosystem and human society. Climate change has led to rising temperatures, rising sea levels, and an increase in extreme weather events, and the spread of plastic waste in the ocean has become a global problem, posing a threat to marine ecosystems and biodiversity. This study introduces the concept of climate change and focuses on exploring its direct impact on the marine environment, including factors such as rising seawater temperature, changes in ocean circulation, and acidification; discussed how climate change affects the distribution and decomposition of marine plastic waste. At the same time, this study delves into the potential impact of climate change on plastic waste in the ocean, from the negative impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems, including threats to biodiversity and disruptions to the food chain. Understanding this relationship is crucial for taking effective measures to reduce plastic pollution in the ocean. This not only provides a reliable basis for research on marine ecological environment, but also brings deeper insights into human health and sustainable development.

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