how to end an essay about ocean pollution

Essay on Ocean Pollution

Students are often asked to write an essay on Ocean Pollution in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Ocean Pollution

Ocean pollution: an overview.

Ocean pollution is a grave issue affecting our planet. It involves harmful substances, like plastic and chemicals, entering the ocean, damaging marine life and ecosystems.

Causes of Ocean Pollution

Effects of ocean pollution.

Ocean pollution harms marine life. Animals ingest plastic or get entangled in it, often leading to their death. It also disrupts the balance of marine ecosystems.

Preventing Ocean Pollution

We can prevent ocean pollution by reducing waste, recycling more, and supporting laws that protect oceans. Everyone’s small efforts can make a big difference.

250 Words Essay on Ocean Pollution

Introduction.

The primary culprits of ocean pollution are industrial waste, plastic debris, oil spills, and agricultural runoff. Industries often dump waste directly into oceans, releasing toxic chemicals that harm marine life. Plastics, due to their non-biodegradable nature, remain in the ocean for centuries, often ingested by marine animals, leading to their demise. Oil spills have devastating effects, smothering marine life and damaging habitats. Agricultural runoff, rich in fertilizers and pesticides, can cause harmful algal blooms, depleting oxygen levels and creating “dead zones”.

Impacts of Ocean Pollution

Ocean pollution’s impacts are multifaceted. It wreaks havoc on marine biodiversity, leading to population declines and species extinction. It also disrupts the food chain, as toxins accumulate in larger predators through bioaccumulation. In addition, ocean pollution affects human health, as we consume seafood contaminated with toxins.

In conclusion, ocean pollution is a grave issue that demands immediate attention. Sustainable practices, strict regulations, and public awareness are key to mitigating this crisis. As we rely heavily on oceans for sustenance and recreation, it is our collective responsibility to safeguard them for future generations.

500 Words Essay on Ocean Pollution

Introduction: the deepening crisis of ocean pollution.

Ocean pollution, a growing environmental concern, poses significant threats to marine ecosystems and human health. The ocean, which covers over 70% of the earth’s surface, is the lifeblood of our planet. It regulates climate, feeds millions of people, and is home to an incredible array of wildlife. However, the health of our oceans is under severe threat from anthropogenic activities.

The Sources of Ocean Pollution

Ocean pollution stems from numerous sources. The primary culprit is land-based activities, which account for approximately 80% of marine pollution. Industrial effluents, untreated sewage, agricultural run-off, and plastic waste are all discharged into rivers and ultimately flow into the oceans.

Impacts on Marine Ecosystems

The impacts of ocean pollution on marine ecosystems are profound and far-reaching. Plastic debris, for instance, entangles and injures marine animals. Many species, including sea turtles and seabirds, mistake plastic for food, leading to ingestion, malnutrition, and often death.

Chemical pollutants, on the other hand, can disrupt the reproductive processes of marine organisms. Heavy metals and other toxic substances bioaccumulate in marine food chains, posing health risks not only to marine life but also to humans consuming seafood.

Climate Change and Ocean Pollution

Ocean pollution also exacerbates the impacts of climate change. Nutrient run-off from agriculture can cause algal blooms, leading to ‘dead zones’ where oxygen levels are so low most marine life cannot survive. These areas are increasing due to global warming, which raises ocean temperatures and lowers oxygen levels.

Addressing Ocean Pollution

Addressing ocean pollution requires a multi-pronged approach. At the policy level, stricter regulations are needed for waste disposal and agricultural run-off. International cooperation is also essential to manage pollution from maritime activities.

Public awareness and education are also crucial. By understanding the sources and impacts of ocean pollution, individuals can make more informed choices, such as reducing plastic consumption and responsibly disposing of waste.

Conclusion: The Urgent Call to Preserve Our Oceans

Ocean pollution is a complex and pressing issue that threatens the health of our planet. As we move forward, it is imperative that we view the oceans not as an endless resource and dumping ground, but as a vital ecosystem that needs our protection. Through a combination of policy, technology, and education, we can begin to turn the tide on ocean pollution.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Essay on Ocean Pollution

Introduction to Ocean Pollution

Ocean pollution, which stems from human activities, presents a serious danger to the health of marine ecosystems, our planet’s most crucial resource. From plastic debris choking the seas to toxic chemicals leaching into the water, the consequences of our actions reverberate throughout the world’s oceans. Consider the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a sprawling expanse of plastic waste twice the size of Texas, as a stark illustration of our impact. As we delve into the causes, effects, and solutions to this pressing issue, it becomes clear that urgent action is needed to preserve the health and biodiversity of our oceans.

Importance of addressing ocean pollution

Addressing ocean pollution is crucial for several reasons:

Watch our Demo Courses and Videos

Valuation, Hadoop, Excel, Mobile Apps, Web Development & many more.

• Marine Ecosystem Health : Ocean pollution harms marine life, including fish, seabirds, and marine mammals, through ingestion, entanglement, and habitat destruction. Protecting marine ecosystems is essential for biodiversity and the health of the planet.
• Human Health : Toxins present in the ocean have the potential to infiltrate the food chain, consequently impacting human health in the long run. Eating seafood contaminated with toxins can lead to health problems such as mercury poisoning.
• Economic Impact : Ocean pollution can damage industries like fishing and tourism, which rely on healthy marine environments. Cleanup efforts and lost revenue from affected industries can cost billions of dollars.
• Climate Regulation : The role of oceans in regulating Earth’s climate is critical, as they absorb carbon dioxide and heat. Pollution can disrupt these processes, leading to further climate change impacts.
• Global Food Security : Millions of people rely on seafood as their primary source of protein. Ocean pollution threatens the availability and safety of this important food source.
• Preservation of Natural Resources : Oceans provide resources like fish, minerals, and energy. Protecting these resources ensures their availability for future generations.
• Environmental Justice : Marginalized communities, whose livelihoods and cultural practices rely heavily on marine resources, are disproportionately affected by ocean pollution. Addressing ocean pollution is, therefore, also a matter of social justice.

Causes of Ocean Pollution

Human activities contribute the most to ocean pollution by introducing harmful substances into the marine environment. Some of the leading causes include:

• Plastic Pollution : Improper disposal of plastic waste, such as bottles, bags, and microplastics, contributes to ocean pollution. These items can take hundreds of years to degrade and harm marine life through ingestion and entanglement.
• Chemical Pollution : Chemicals from agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and household products can end up in the ocean, contaminating the water and harming marine life. Pesticides, fertilizers, and cleaning agents are examples of chemicals that can contribute to ocean pollution.
• Oil Pollution : Oil spills from tanker accidents, offshore drilling operations, and illegal dumping release significant quantities of oil into the ocean. This can harm marine life, disrupt ecosystems, and damage coastal areas.
• Sewage and Wastewater : Untreated sewage and wastewater from cities and industries can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. When discharged into the ocean, this pollution can contaminate water and affect marine life.
• Maritime Activities : Activities such as shipping, fishing, and boating can contribute to ocean pollution by releasing oil, fuel, and waste. Accidental spills and improper waste disposal are common sources of pollution from maritime activities.
• Atmospheric Deposition : Air pollution from sources such as vehicle emissions and industrial activities can deposit pollutants into the ocean. This can include heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful substances accumulating in marine ecosystems.
• Plastic Microbeads : Personal care products such as exfoliating scrubs and toothpaste often contain tiny plastic particles that can pass through wastewater treatment plants and harm marine life.
• Noise Pollution : Human activities such as shipping, drilling, and sonar use can create underwater noise pollution, which can disrupt marine life and interfere with their communication and navigation abilities.

Effects of Ocean Pollution

Ocean pollution has a range of effects on marine ecosystems, wildlife, and human health. Some of the key effects include:

• Harm to Marine Life : Pollution can directly harm marine species through ingestion, entanglement, and habitat destruction. Plastic debris in the ocean often deceives marine animals into mistaking it for food, which can result in internal injuries, starvation, and, ultimately, death. Chemical pollutants can disrupt hormone levels and immune systems in marine organisms.
• Disruption of Ecosystems : Pollution can disrupt marine ecosystems by altering habitats and food chains. Species may be displaced or become extinct, leading to imbalances in ecosystems. Such occurrences can have cascading effects on other species and the functions of the ecosystem.
• Human Health Risks : Pollutants in contaminated waters can pose health risks to humans who consume tainted seafood or come into contact with polluted water. For example, mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) can accumulate in fish and shellfish, posing a risk to human health.
• Economic Impact : Ocean pollution can have substantial economic impacts, especially on industries like fishing and tourism. Polluted waters can lead to declines in fish populations, affecting the livelihoods of fishermen. Coastal tourism can also suffer due to beach closures and water quality concerns.
• Loss of Biodiversity : Pollution can contribute to biodiversity loss in marine environments. Species particularly sensitive to pollution may decline or disappear, reducing overall biodiversity and the resilience of marine ecosystems.
• Habitat Degradation : Pollution can degrade important marine habitats such as coral reefs, mangrove forests, and seagrass beds. Such impacts can have long-term effects on the health and productivity of these ecosystems and the species that rely on them.
• Climate Change : Some forms of ocean pollution, such as carbon dioxide emissions and plastic debris, contribute to climate change. Carbon dioxide absorbed by the ocean leads to ocean acidification, harming marine organisms such as corals and shellfish.

Current Efforts to Combat Ocean Pollution

Efforts to combat ocean pollution involve a combination of international agreements, national regulations, technological innovations, and public awareness campaigns. Some current efforts include:

• International Agreements : Agreements such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) MARPOL Convention set standards for preventing and reducing marine pollution from ships.
• Plastic Pollution Reduction : Numerous countries and regions have implemented bans or restrictions on single-use plastics. Additionally, global initiatives like the UN Environment Programme’s Clean Seas campaign are working towards reducing marine litter.
• Wastewater Treatment : Improving wastewater treatment systems can reduce the amount of pollutants, including chemicals and nutrients, entering the ocean from urban and industrial sources.
• Oil Spill Prevention and Response : Enhanced technology and regulations for oil tankers and offshore drilling operations help prevent oil spills. Efforts are underway to minimize environmental damage from potential spills.
• Coastal Cleanups : Volunteer and organized cleanups play a crucial role in removing litter and debris from beaches and coastal areas, preventing them from entering the ocean.
• Research and Monitoring : Scientists are studying the impacts of ocean pollution and monitoring pollution levels to inform policy decisions and develop effective mitigation strategies.
• Technological Innovations : Innovative technologies, like waste-to-energy procedures and ocean cleanup systems, are being developed to extract plastic and other pollutants from the water and turn them into valuable resources.
• Education & Awareness : Raising public awareness and educating people about the importance of reducing ocean pollution and promoting behavior change is crucial.
• Circular Economy Initiatives : Promoting a circular economy, where products are designed for reuse or recycling, can significantly reduce the volume of waste entering the ocean.
• Community Engagement : Engaging local communities in coastal cleanup efforts and sustainable practices helps foster a sense of stewardship for the ocean and its resources.

Case Studies

Here are some case studies of significant ocean pollution incidents:

• Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill (2010) : One of the most significant marine oil disasters in history occurred when millions of gallons of oil were released into the Gulf of Mexico over several months due to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The spill devastated marine life, ecosystems, and local economies, highlighting the risks associated with offshore drilling.
• Great Pacific Garbage Patch : A huge patch of plastic marine waste in the North Pacific Ocean is called the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. It is estimated to be larger than Texas and poses serious threats to marine life through ingestion and entanglement.
• Exxon Valdez Oil Spill (1989) : The Exxon Valdez oil leak happened on March 24, 1989, when the tanker went aground in Alaska’s Prince William Sound. This resulted in one of US history’s most devastating oil spills, releasing millions of gallons of crude oil into the ocean. The spill had long-lasting effects on the environment and local communities, leading to extensive cleanup efforts and legal battles.
• Plastic Pollution in Henderson Island : Henderson Island, a remote uninhabited island in the South Pacific, has become a focal point for studying the impact of plastic pollution. Despite its remote location, the island’s beaches are covered with millions of pieces of plastic debris, illustrating the extent of the global plastic pollution problem.
• Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster (1986) : While not directly related to ocean pollution, the Chernobyl nuclear disaster indirectly affected the marine environment. Radioactive contaminants from the disaster entered rivers that ultimately flowed into the ocean, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental disasters.

Challenges and Obstacles

Despite efforts to combat ocean pollution, several challenges and obstacles persist:

• Lack of Effective Regulation : Enforcement and establishing new regulations can be challenging, especially in regions with limited resources or political will.
• Complexity of Pollution Sources : Ocean pollution stems from many sources, including land-based activities, shipping, and offshore industries, making it difficult to address comprehensively.
• Plastic Pollution : The persistence of plastics in the environment and their ability to break down into microplastics present a particularly challenging and widespread form of pollution.
• Limited Resources : Funding for cleanup efforts, research, and infrastructure improvements can be limited, hindering the scale and effectiveness of mitigation measures.
• Global Nature of the Problem : Ocean pollution is a worldwide issue that requires cooperation and coordination among countries, which can be challenging to achieve.
• Technological Limitations : Current technologies for cleaning up ocean pollution, such as ocean cleanup systems, have limitations in terms of effectiveness, scalability, and environmental impact.
• Behavioral Change : Encouraging individuals and industries to adopt more sustainable practices and decrease their reliance on single-use plastics can indeed present challenges.
• Climate Change : The impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and ocean acidification, can exacerbate the effects of ocean pollution and complicate efforts to mitigate them.
• Displacement of Pollution : Efforts to reduce pollution in one area can sometimes lead to its displacement to other areas or ecosystems.
• Lack of Data and Research : Limited data on the extent and impact of ocean pollution in certain regions hinders the development of targeted solutions and policies.

Solutions to Ocean Pollution

There are several solutions to address ocean pollution, including:

• Reduce Plastic Use : Take steps to decrease the production and use of single-use plastics by implementing measures like prohibiting plastic bags and straws and advocating for reusable alternatives.
• Improve Waste Management : Invest in better waste management infrastructure, including recycling facilities and waste treatment plants, to prevent plastic and other pollutants from entering the ocean.
• Cleanup Efforts : Organize beach cleanups, river cleanups, and other initiatives to remove litter and debris from coastal areas before reaching the ocean.
• Regulate Pollution Sources : Enforce regulations to reduce pollution from industries, agriculture, and shipping, including stricter emission standards and controls on chemical discharge.
• Invest in Technology : Develop and deploy innovative technologies for cleaning up ocean pollution, such as ocean cleanup systems and waste-to-energy processes.
• Promote Sustainable Practices : Promote sustainable fishing, responsible tourism, and eco-friendly manufacturing to reduce human impact on the marine environment.
• Educate and Raise Awareness : Increase public awareness about the importance of ocean conservation and the consequences of pollution through education campaigns, outreach programs, and media engagement.
• Support Research and Monitoring : Invest in scientific research to better understand the sources and impacts of ocean pollution and develop evidence-based policies and strategies for mitigation.
• International Cooperation : Foster collaboration among countries to address transboundary pollution issues and develop coordinated ocean conservation and management approaches.
• Consumer Responsibility : Empower consumers to make environmentally conscious choices by providing information about sustainable products and supporting businesses prioritizing environmental stewardship.

Addressing ocean pollution is a critical and urgent task that requires concerted efforts at local, national, and global levels. The consequences of pollution, including harm to marine life, ecosystems, and human health, highlight the need for immediate action. Implementing solutions such as reducing plastic usage, enhancing waste management, regulating pollution sources, and promoting sustainable practices can help mitigate the impacts of pollution and safeguard our oceans for future generations. Sustaining awareness-building, research funding, and international collaboration are critical to properly addressing this intricate and urgent environmental issue.

*Please provide your correct email id. Login details for this Free course will be emailed to you

By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

Valuation, Hadoop, Excel, Web Development & many more.

Forgot Password?

This website or its third-party tools use cookies, which are necessary to its functioning and required to achieve the purposes illustrated in the cookie policy. By closing this banner, scrolling this page, clicking a link or continuing to browse otherwise, you agree to our Privacy Policy

Explore 1000+ varieties of Mock tests View more

Submit Next Question

🚀 Limited Time Offer! - 🎁 ENROLL NOW

A sea turtle mistakes a plastic bag for food. © Ben J. Hicks / benjhicks.com

One of the reasons that plastic pollution is such a problem is that it doesn’t go away: “plastics are forever.” Instead, plastic debris simply breaks down into ever-smaller particles, known as microplastics , whose environmental impacts are still being determined.

Plastic Pollution Solutions: 7 Things You Can Do Today

Everyone can do something to help solve the plastic pollution problem, and millions of people worldwide are already taking action to reduce their plastic use . Here are seven ways you can make a difference, starting today.

1. Reduce Your Use of Single-Use Plastics

Wherever you live, the easiest and most direct way that you can get started is by reducing your own use of single-use plastics. Single-use plastics include plastic bags, water bottles, straws, cups, utensils, dry cleaning bags, take-out containers, and any other plastic items that are used once and then discarded.

The best way to do this is by a) refusing any single-use plastics that you do not need (e.g. straws, plastic bags, takeout utensils, takeout containers), and b) purchasing, and carrying with you, reusable versions of those products, including reusable grocery bags , produce bags , bottles , utensils , coffee cups , and dry cleaning garment bags . And when you refuse single-use plastic items, help businesses by letting them know that you would like them to offer alternatives.

2. Support Legislation to Curb Plastic Production and Waste

As important as it is to change our individual behaviors, such changes alone are insufficient to stop ocean plastic pollution. We also need legislation that reduces plastic production, improves waste management, and makes plastic producers responsible for the waste they generate. There are a variety of ways that you can support local, national, and international legislation that provide critical solutions to reduce plastic pollution. One such effort in the United States is the 2021 Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act , a comprehensive federal bill that aims to address the plastic pollution crisis, and there are a number of state level initiatives to introduce extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation that makes plastic producers and distributors responsible for their products and packaging at the end of life.

At the international level, hundreds of organizations and businesses successfully worked together with United Nations member states to enact a global plastics treaty , signed by 175 member states, that will set global rules and regulations to reduce plastic pollution. And legislation that limits, taxes, or bans unnecessary single use plastic items, such as plastic bags, takeout containers, and bottles, has been successfully enacted in many places globally, and you can support the adoption of such policies in your community too. Here is a comprehensive resource and toolkit on legislative approaches to limiting plastic bags, foodware, microplastics, and more.

3. Recycle Properly

This should go without saying, but when you use single-use (and other) plastics that can be recycled, always be sure to recycle them. At present, just 9% of plastic is recycled worldwide . Recycling helps keep plastics out of the ocean and reduces the amount of “new” plastic in circulation. If you need help finding a place to recycle plastic waste near you, check Earth911’s recycling directory . It’s also important to check with your local recycling center about the types of plastic they accept.

4. Participate In (or Organize) a Beach or River Cleanup

Help remove plastics from the ocean and prevent them from getting there in the first place by participating in, or organizing a cleanup of your local beach or waterway . This is one of the most direct and rewarding ways to fight ocean plastic pollution. You can simply go to the beach or waterway and collect plastic waste on your own or with friends or family, or you can join a local organization’s cleanup or an international event like our Global Ocean Cleanup  or the International Coastal Cleanup .

  Take Our 7-Day Fight Plastic Waste Challenge Join the global movement to fight plastic waste with our 7-day challenge. With just a few minutes a day, you’ll be on your way to reducing ocean plastic pollution from home. Take the Challenge

5. Avoid Products Containing Microbeads

Tiny plastic particles, called “ microbeads ,” have become a growing source of ocean plastic pollution in recent years. Microbeads are found in some face scrubs, toothpastes, and bodywashes, and they readily enter our oceans and waterways through our sewer systems, and affect hundreds of marine species. Avoid products containing plastic microbeads by looking for “polythelene” and “polypropylene” on the ingredient labels of your cosmetic products (find a list of products containing microbeads here ).

6. Spread the Word

Stay informed on issues related to plastic pollution and help make others aware of the problem. Tell your friends and family about how they can be part of the solution, or host a viewing party for one of the many plastic pollution focused documentaries, like A Plastic Ocean , Garbage Island: An Ocean Full of Plastic , Bag It , Addicted to Plastic , Plasticized , or Garbage Island .

7. Support Organizations Addressing Plastic Pollution

There are many non-profit organizations working to reduce and eliminate ocean plastic pollution in a variety of different ways, including Oceanic Society , Plastic Pollution Coalition , 5 Gyres , Algalita , Plastic Soup Foundation , and others. These organizations rely on donations from people like you to continue their important work. Even small donations can make a big difference!

These seven ideas only scratch the surface for ways you can help address the growing problem of plastic pollution in the oceans. The important thing is that we all do something, no matter how small. For more ideas and resources, sign up to join our Blue Habits community of people worldwide committed to joyful daily actions that improve ocean health.

  Reduce Plastic Pollution From Home with Our 7-Day Challenge Join the global movement to fight plastic waste by participating in our 7-day challenge. Take the Challenge

Oceanic Society community members clean up San Francisco’s Ocean Beach.

Brian Hutchinson

Join our community., latest posts.

Oceanic Society Receives Highest Recognitions for Management, Transparency, and Impact

Costa Rica Rainforest Animals: Experience the Osa Peninsula

Sea Turtle Tourism Offers Opportunity to Observe and Interact While Having a Positive Impact

Meet Plaine Products: A Personal Care Company on a Mission to Reduce Plastic Waste

Adventure awaits..

No Results Found

Ocean plastic pollution an overview: data and statistics

09 May 2022

https://oceanliteracy.unesco.org/plastic-pollution-ocean/

Plastic is one of the most enduring materials man has created. Nowadays, we all know that it can take hundreds of years for plastic to degrade, and research is showing that it is possible that it does not even fully degrade, but becomes what we call microplastic .

Microplastics are tiny particles of plastic that can be eaten by marine animals and end up in their bodies and tissues, entering the food chain and leading to disastrous consequences for the health of our planet and all its inhabitants.

Even if human beings are becoming more and more aware of the hazards this material poses to life, the presence of plastic in our ocean is continually increasing, and plastic pollution is still one of the main causes of marine species extinction , health problems for human beings and animals alike, and the destruction of our ecosystems.

In this article, we will look at ocean plastic pollution and lay out the data and statistics you need to understand the daunting issue we are facing. Most importantly, we will also look at what we can do as individuals and as part of our society to prevent plastic pollution and save our planet.

Let’s start!

Plastic Pollution in the Ocean: Where does it come from?

It is clear that plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental issues we are currently facing, but how did it come to be? Moreover, where does all the plastic in the ocean come from?

Plastics produced from fossil fuels are just over a century old , but they revolutionized our life completely. It allowed the invention of many life-saving devices and the implementation of new technologies that changed the course of history.

However, the great advantages plastic offered led to a throwaway trend that made us discover plastic’s dark side: the threat it poses to our environment and life.

The majority of plastic pollution in the ocean is caused by littering : we buy or use disposable plastic items (food wrappings, plastic bags, razors, bottles, etc.) and do not dispose of them properly, which cause them to end up in the waterways and eventually in the ocean.

Yet, not all-plastic waste in the ocean is an effect of littering: many plastics and microplastics are the product of improper manufacturing processes and about 20% of the ocean’s plastic pollution comes from industrial fishing.

Plastic Pollution: Key Facts

• Plastic waste makes up 80% of all marine pollution and around 8 to 10 million metric tons of plastic end up in the ocean each year.
• Research states that, by 2050, plastic will likely outweigh all fish in the sea.
• In the last ten years, we have produced more plastic products than in the previous century.
• The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has stated that basically 100% of all plastics human beings have ever created are still in existence.
• Plastic generally takes between 500-1000 years to degrade. Even then, it becomes microplastics, without fully degrading.
• Currently, there are about 50-75 trillion pieces of plastic and microplastics in the ocean.
• This plastic either breaks down into microplastic particles (see below), or floats around and ends up forming garbage patches.

Garbage Patches in the Ocean

Most of the plastic we find in the ocean comes from land: it flows downstream through rivers all the way to the sea. At first, it may stay in coastal waters, but it can soon be picked up by rotating ocean currents , called gyres, and transported literally anywhere in the world.

According to National Geographic, scientists found plastic coming from Russia, the United States, Europe, South America, Japan, and China on Henderson Island , an uninhabited isolated atoll halfway between Chile and New Zealand.

Usually, marine plastic debris groups up in what we call garbage patches, plastic accumulation areas, in the center of the ocean’s gyres. The biggest is the Great Pacific garbage patch , located between Hawaii and California.

Consequences

Today, plastic production and use is still at its highest, but the data on recycling are not at all promising: only about 10% of the plastic we produce is currently being recycled . The rest is either incinerated, causing air pollution, or it ends up in our oceans and environment.

Harm to Wildlife

Plastic pollution in the ocean has a devastating impact on marine life and ecosystems. The most obvious one being the damage plastic items cause to animals when they come into contact with or ingest them, which include suffocation, entanglement, laceration, infections and internal injuries.

17% of the species affected by the presence of plastic in the ocean are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species.

Yet, there are more problems related to plastic: floating plastic items can help transport invasive species, which leads to threats for marine ecosystems , biodiversity and the food web.

Harm to Human Beings

As we explained above, microplastics have now become part of the food chain and have been found everywhere: in drinking water, salt, beer and in the soil where we grow our vegetables.

Plastic materials are carcinogenic and can affect the body’s endocrine system, causing developmental, neurological, reproductive and immune disorders. Another health hazard is given by toxic contaminants that often accumulate on plastic’s surface, and are then transferred to humans through the consumption of seafood.

Climate Change

Plastic pollution and climate change are two sides of the same coin : plastic production, as it is created from fossil fuels, highly contributes to the climate crisis.

Moreover, as we already mentioned, when plastic waste is incinerated, it releases carbon dioxide and methane into the atmosphere, increasing emissions and worsening global warming.

Economic effects

According to research, the yearly economic costs of plastic in the ocean are estimated to be between $6-19bn USD. These costs are given by its impact on tourism, fisheries and aquaculture, and (governmental) cleanups.

Images of Plastic Pollution in the Ocean

Here, we have decided to show you some recent images of plastic pollution in the ocean.

This will help you comprehend the magnitude of the threat that plastic pollution in the ocean poses to our planet and life, as we know it, and hopefully help you develop a deeper awareness of what is going on.

Why it is Vital to Prevent Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution is undoubtedly an issue that requires worldwide cooperation. Its consequences affect the whole planet and its inhabitants: it threatens ocean health , the health of marine species, food safety and quality, human health , coastal tourism, and contributes to climate change.

Reducing the presence of plastic in our oceans will not only allow us to save marine species and ecosystems, but will improve our overall health and that of the environment in general, helping us fight climate change and working towards a more sustainable future .

How to Stop Plastic Pollution in the Ocean

It is quite hard to retrieve plastic from the ocean once it has entered it. New technologies allow us to catch larger marine debris, but small plastic items and microplastics are virtually impossible to reach, especially when they are deep in the ocean.

Therefore, many scientists and conservationists have declared that the best solution is to prevent plastic waste from entering rivers and seas in the first place.

This could be accomplished with the improvement of our waste management systems and the implementation of recycling . In addition, it is essential to reconsider the design and usage of disposable packaging , and the reduction in manufacturing of unnecessary single-use plastics.

What Can We Do

There are many ways to keep plastic out of the ocean ! Here are some strategies you can adopt and share with your community:

• Reduce plastic use Think about all the plastic items you use in your daily life. Can you even count them all? Being more aware of the way you use plastic is a great starting point to reduce plastic waste.

We know, habits are hard to change, but even a small individual commitment can make a difference especially when talking about the single-use plastics we mentioned earlier which, according to data from the European Parliament, are responsible for 49% of all marine pollution.

Here are some new habits you can take inspiration from:

• Swap plastic bags for reusable ones, made of cloth or fiber.
• Reduce the use of disposable plastic cups, plates, cutlery and bottles. For example, bring your own reusable bottle to work and a reusable coffee cup for your morning take-away!)
• Buy food and cleaning products in bulk to avoid useless plastic wrappings. Nowadays, there are plenty of options to choose from, and many supermarkets let you fill your own jars/bags.
• Choose metal or glass food containers and storage options instead of plastic ones.
• Avoid buying and using cosmetics that contain plastic microspheres or microbeads.
• Participate in (or organize!) a cleanup

If you live by a sea or river, you can volunteer to pick up litter in your local community, thus remove plastics from the waterways and preventing them from getting to the ocean in the first place. There are many organizations you can join, or simply do it on the weekend with your friends and family. Every little helps!

• Support the right legislation

Of course, it is essential to change our individual behaviors and habits, but unfortunately, this is not sufficient to prevent and stop ocean plastic pollution. It is also essential that you support legislation that aims at reducing the use and production of plastic, improve recycling facilities and better manage waste in general.

• Support research and organizations

One of the main weapons we can use to stop ocean pollution is research. By deepening our knowledge of the effects of the issue, we can start implementing better policies for all.

There are many NGOs and non-profit that rely on donations to develop their projects and research for reducing and eliminating plastic from the ocean. Here are some examples:

• Oceanic Society
• Plastic Pollution Coalition
• Plastic Soup Foundation

Sylvia Earle, marine biologist, said: “It is the worst of times but it is the best of times because we still have a chance.” So, let us make the best of this chance; we can all make choices to protect our planet, it is not too late!

https://www.itsafishthing.com/plastic-in-the-ocean/

https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/plastic-planet-how-tiny-plastic-particles-are-polluting-our-soil

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/plastic-pollution

https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/hazards/marinedebris/plastics-in-the-ocean.html

https://theoceancleanup.com/

https://www.iberdrola.com/sustainability/plastic-in-the-ocean

https://www.wwf.org.uk/updates/how-does-plastic-end-ocean

https://www.oceanicsociety.org/resources/7-ways-to-reduce-ocean-plastic-pollution-today/

Sustainable Mediterranean, Issue No 79 on Ocean Literacy

Chemical pollution of the ocean, climate negotiations in madrid: cop25 made a splash.

ENCYCLOPEDIC ENTRY

Marine pollution.

Marine pollution is a combination of chemicals and trash, most of which comes from land sources and is washed or blown into the ocean. This pollution results in damage to the environment, to the health of all organisms, and to economic structures worldwide.

Biology, Ecology, Earth Science, Oceanography

Loading ...

Learning materials

Instructional links.

• Marine Pollution (Google Doc)

Marine pollution is a growing problem in today’s world. Our ocean is being flooded with two main types of pollution: chemicals and trash.

Chemical contamination, or nutrient pollution, is concerning for health, environmental, and economic reasons. This type of pollution occurs when human activities, notably the use of fertilizer on farms, lead to the runoff of chemicals into waterways that ultimately flow into the ocean. The increased concentration of chemicals, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, in the coastal ocean promotes the growth of algal blooms , which can be toxic to wildlife and harmful to humans. The negative effects on health and the environment caused by algal blooms hurt local fishing and tourism industries.

Marine trash encompasses all manufactured products—most of them plastic —that end up in the ocean. Littering, storm winds, and poor waste management all contribute to the accumulation of this debris , 80 percent of which comes from sources on land. Common types of marine debris include various plastic items like shopping bags and beverage bottles, along with cigarette butts, bottle caps, food wrappers, and fishing gear. Plastic waste is particularly problematic as a pollutant because it is so long-lasting. Plastic items can take hundreds of years to decompose.

This trash poses dangers to both humans and animals. Fish become tangled and injured in the debris , and some animals mistake items like plastic bags for food and eat them. Small organisms feed on tiny bits of broken-down plastic , called micro plastic , and absorb the chemicals from the plastic into their tissues. Micro plastics are less than five millimeters (0.2 inches) in diameter and have been detected in a range of marine species, including plankton and whales. When small organisms that consume micro plastics are eaten by larger animals, the toxic chemicals then become part of their tissues. In this way, the micro plastic pollution migrates up the food chain , eventually becoming part of the food that humans eat.

Solutions for marine pollution include prevention and cleanup. Disposable and single-use plastic is abundantly used in today’s society, from shopping bags to shipping packaging to plastic bottles. Changing society’s approach to plastic use will be a long and economically challenging process. Cleanup, in contrast, may be impossible for some items. Many types of debris (including some plastics ) do not float, so they are lost deep in the ocean. Plastics that do float tend to collect in large “patches” in ocean gyres. The Pacific Garbage Patch is one example of such a collection, with plastics and micro plastics floating on and below the surface of swirling ocean currents between California and Hawaii in an area of about 1.6 million square kilometers (617,763 square miles), although its size is not fixed. These patches are less like islands of trash and, as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says, more like flecks of micro plastic pepper swirling around an ocean soup. Even some promising solutions are inadequate for combating marine pollution. So-called “ biodegradable ” plastics often break down only at temperatures higher than will ever be reached in the ocean.

Nonetheless, many countries are taking action. According to a 2018 report from the United Nations, more than sixty countries have enacted regulations to limit or ban the use of disposable plastic items. The National Geographic Society is making this content available under a Creative Commons CC-BY-NC-SA license . The License excludes the National Geographic Logo (meaning the words National Geographic + the Yellow Border Logo) and any images that are included as part of each content piece. For clarity the Logo and images may not be removed, altered, or changed in any way.

Media Credits

The audio, illustrations, photos, and videos are credited beneath the media asset, except for promotional images, which generally link to another page that contains the media credit. The Rights Holder for media is the person or group credited.

Production Managers

Program specialists, last updated.

February 22, 2024

User Permissions

For information on user permissions, please read our Terms of Service. If you have questions about how to cite anything on our website in your project or classroom presentation, please contact your teacher. They will best know the preferred format. When you reach out to them, you will need the page title, URL, and the date you accessed the resource.

If a media asset is downloadable, a download button appears in the corner of the media viewer. If no button appears, you cannot download or save the media.

Text on this page is printable and can be used according to our Terms of Service .

Interactives

Any interactives on this page can only be played while you are visiting our website. You cannot download interactives.

Related Resources

Home / Essay Samples / Environment / Ocean Pollution / Plastic Pollution In The Ocean

Plastic Pollution In The Ocean

• Category: Science , Environment
• Topic: Ocean , Ocean Pollution , Pollution

Pages: 3 (1159 words)

Views: 3044

• Downloads: -->

--> ⚠️ Remember: This essay was written and uploaded by an--> click here.

Found a great essay sample but want a unique one?

are ready to help you with your essay

You won’t be charged yet!

Pollution Essays

Deforestation Essays

Water Conservation Essays

Solar Energy Essays

Littering Essays

Related Essays

We are glad that you like it, but you cannot copy from our website. Just insert your email and this sample will be sent to you.

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service  and  Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Your essay sample has been sent.

In fact, there is a way to get an original essay! Turn to our writers and order a plagiarism-free paper.

samplius.com uses cookies to offer you the best service possible.By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .--> -->