OCEAN POLLUTION BY PLASTICS: THE IMPACT OF MICROPLASTICS ON MARINE LIFE AND GLOBAL FOOD CHAINS

Abstract

Plastic pollution has become one of the most urgent environmental challenges of the modern world. The rapid increase in plastic production and consumption has resulted in large amounts of waste entering aquatic ecosystems. As larger plastic items break down, they form microplastics, tiny plastic particles that are now found throughout oceans worldwide. Due to their persistence and small size, microplastics are easily consumed by marine organisms and transferred through food chains. This study examines the effects of microplastics on marine life and global food chains through an analysis of scientific literature and environmental research. The findings indicate that microplastics negatively affect marine organisms, threaten biodiversity, and may pose risks to human health through seafood consumption. The study also highlights the importance of responsible waste management, environmental awareness, and sustainable practices in reducing plastic pollution.