Plastic pollution is a growing problem in our oceans, with an estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic entering the marine environment every year. This plastic debris not only harms the appearance of our oceans and beaches, but it also harms the wildlife that calls the ocean home.

Marine animals such as turtles, whales, and seabirds mistake plastic for food and ingest it, which can cause injury or death. Plastic can also entangle animals, causing suffocation or drowning. The problem is particularly dire for species such as sea turtles, which mistake plastic bags for their preferred food of jellyfish.

Plastic pollution also harms entire oceanic ecosystems. Plastic debris can transport invasive species to new areas, disrupt the food chain, and introduce toxic chemicals into the environment. These impacts can have far-reaching consequences for both marine wildlife and human communities that rely on the ocean for food and livelihoods.

To address this issue, we must reduce our use of single-use plastics and properly dispose of the plastic we do use. We must also support research and conservation efforts that focus on mitigating the impacts of plastic pollution on marine wildlife and promote policies and regulations that restrict the use of plastics.

Individuals can also make a difference by changing their habits and using reusable bags, containers, and bottles and properly disposing of the plastic. By reducing our plastic consumption and properly disposing of plastic, we can help ensure a healthy ocean for marine wildlife and future generations to enjoy.

Photo by Brian Yurasits on Unsplash