Oceans

Historical of Marine plastic pollution

Why is plastic pollution a problem ?

Negative effect on our health

  • By deteriorating plastic waste releases microplastics in our environment (air, water and soil). 
  • Humans are exposed to these microparticles through airborne dust, drinking water and seafood.
  • According to the UNEP:
    • DEHP, a common plastic additive that is widely suspected to cause cancer, can be found in measurable quantities in eight out of ten babies and nearly all adults.
    • 93% of people’s urine contains Bisphenol A, which is used to make plastic and is known for interfering with our hormonal system.

Negative impact on the environment

Negative economic impact

  • Plastic pollution represents a danger for wildlife due to the possibility for animals to get entangled in plastic waste. This problem particularly affects the 89 remaining Irrawady dolphins, a critically endangered specie of the Mekong. (WWF)
  • Plastic waste poses a threat to aquatic life due to the microplastics released from it. For example, microplastics has been found to hinder the growth of roots of duckweed, to inhibit the photosynthetic system of freshwater algae and block digestive tracks of aquatic creatures.  (National Geographic)
  • Plastic waste also releases toxic chemicals into the surrounding soil which can damage underground or nearby sources of water as well as animals that drink the contaminated water. (UNEP)
  • Plastic clogs waterways as well as sewage and drainage systems, exacerbating flood damage and increasing the amount of money needed to repair flood damage. (UNDP)
  • Due to its high negative impact on the flora and the fauna, plastic pollution compels governments and NGOS around the world to lead aquatic ecosystem revitalization projects, which are expensive and could be easily avoided. (UNDP)
  • Money has to be spent on plastic waste cleanup campaigns. It is projected that at least $90 billion would be needed to clean up ocean trash. (Greenbiz)