Science Common Sense
690 - What are the effects of plastic waste on oceans and marine life?
Imagine you're at the beach and see a beautiful ocean with lots of marine life. But then, you see plastic waste like bags, bottles, and straws floating around. These plastics can really harm the ocean and its animals.
Here are some of the effects:
- Animals get stuck: Some animals like turtles, fish, and birds get trapped in plastic waste and can't escape.
- Animals eat plastic: Many animals mistake plastic for food and eat it. This can make them sick and even die.
- Pollutes the water: Plastic waste breaks into tiny pieces called microplastics, which spread in the water and hurt the environment.
- Kills coral reefs: Plastic pollution can damage coral reefs, which are home to many animals.
- Changes the food chain: Plastic pollution affects the food chain, so even humans who eat fish might be eating plastic too.
So, it's essential to reduce plastic waste by using reusable bags, water bottles, and straws.