We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
The Problem of Plastic Waste and Microplastics in the Seas and Oceans: Impact on Marine Organisms
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarized the scale of plastic waste entering marine environments -- estimated at 1.25 to 2.41 million tons annually via rivers -- and its documented negative effects on marine organisms including ingestion, entanglement, and toxicity.
Abstract A global problem of today is the large amount of waste in the seas and oceans, primarily plastic waste. It is estimated that every year 1.25 to 2.41 million tons of plastic material is being carried by rivers into the seas and oceans. Waste is a major problem for marine organisms, causing entanglement, choking, strangulation, malnutrition and death. In 1972 the problems caused by microplastics, particles smaller than 5 mm, were first observed. Such particles bind pathogenic microorganisms on to their surface. Increasing quantities of microplastics have been found in the stomachs of fish, and also in shellfish that feed by filtering sea water. Ingested by marine organisms, such plastics may eventually pass through the food web and can end up ingested by humans. In addition, plastic releases chemical compounds whose effect on marine organisms and humans has still not been studied. Many international and state organizations offer solutions through recycling plastic waste, as well as reducing the production of plastic materials and informing the public about the problem.
More Papers Like This
The Effects of Plastic and Microplastic Waste on the Marine Environment and the Ocean
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarizes the scale of plastic pollution in the world's oceans, where nearly 280 million tons of plastic are produced annually and much of it ends up in marine environments, affecting at least 267 species. Microplastics enter the marine food chain when sea creatures ingest them, ultimately reaching humans through seafood consumption, with potential health consequences that add to the economic and ecological damage.
Plastic pollution in the marine environment
AI summary Read the abstract
This review provides a comprehensive overview of plastic pollution in coastal and marine environments, covering everything from how plastics enter the ocean to their effects on marine life. Researchers compiled global data showing microplastic concentrations ranging widely across different water bodies and sediments, with marine organisms accumulating significant amounts. The study underscores that plastic pollution causes ecological damage through entanglement, ingestion toxicity, and the transport of invasive species.
Plastics in the Oceans
AI summary Read the abstract
This review synthesizes the scientific literature on plastics in the oceans, covering sources, pathways, distribution, ingestion by marine organisms, and ecological impacts. It provides a comprehensive overview of ocean plastic pollution and highlights the transition from visible debris to pervasive microplastic contamination as the central long-term challenge.
Microplastics and its Impact on Oceanic Environment
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examines the impact of microplastics on oceanic ecosystems, covering the mechanisms by which they harm aquatic life through ingestion and entanglement, and discusses potential strategies for reducing contamination. It emphasizes that continuous plastic production combined with poor waste management is driving an escalating ocean pollution crisis.
Effects of Microplastics in Marine Ecosystem
AI summary Read the abstract
This review summarized the growing evidence for microplastic pollution in marine environments worldwide, covering harm to marine organisms from both physical ingestion and co-transported chemical contaminants. The paper highlights the threat that microplastics and their associated pollutants pose to marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.