Effects of Microplastics on our Oceans

The marine ecosystem is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, which plays an essential role in maintaining the ecological balance. However, the rampant pollution of the oceans has led to the introduction of harmful substances like microplastics into the marine environment. Microplastics are small plastic particles that measure less than five millimeters in size. These particles can have a devastating effect on marine life and the ecosystem as a whole.

The primary sources of microplastics are the breakdown of larger plastic items, including plastic bags, water bottles, and fishing nets. Another significant source of microplastics is microbeads, which are tiny plastic particles used in personal care and cosmetic products like exfoliants and toothpaste. These microbeads are too small to be filtered out by wastewater treatment plants, so they end up in the ocean.

Once in the ocean, microplastics pose a significant threat to marine life. They are mistaken for food by marine creatures such as fish, turtles, and seabirds, who consume them. Microplastics can block the digestive system of these animals, leading to starvation and death. Additionally, the accumulation of microplastics in the marine environment can lead to the release of toxic chemicals, which can cause various diseases in marine animals.

Microplastics also have a significant impact on the marine ecosystem. They can affect the behavior of marine animals, leading to changes in feeding patterns, migration, and reproduction. The accumulation of microplastics in the ocean can also lead to the formation of "plastic islands," where large concentrations of plastics converge due to ocean currents, causing significant damage to marine ecosystems.

The effects of microplastics on the marine ecosystem are not just limited to marine life. Microplastics can also enter the human food chain through the consumption of contaminated seafood, leading to potential health risks.

The effects of microplastics on the marine ecosystem are devastating. The introduction of these particles into the ocean has led to the death of many marine animals, the disruption of the ecological balance, and the potential risk to human health. It is essential to take immediate action to reduce the use of single-use plastics and properly dispose of plastic waste to prevent the further pollution of the oceans.

At Shark Bite Clothing, we support the following Ocean cleanup non-profit organizations: 

The Ocean Cleanup  The Ocean Cleanup is a non-profit organization developing and scaling technologies to rid the oceans of plastic. To achieve this objective, we have to work on a combination of closing the sources of plastic pollution and cleaning up what has already accumulated in the ocean and doesn’t go away by itself. This goal means we plan to put ourselves out of business – once we have completed this project, our work is done.

Oceana, founded in 2001, is the largest international advocacy organization focused solely on ocean conservation. Our offices around the world work together to win strategic, directed campaigns that achieve measurable outcomes that will help make our oceans more biodiverse and abundant.