M5 Plastic Pollution Lit Review Draft

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Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University *

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142

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Geography

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Dec 6, 2023

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docx

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1 “The Silent Assassin: Microplastic Pollution in Marine Ecosystems” Berry, K., Caraballo, A., Fluellen, J., McGrath, K., Zapf, C. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University WW-PHYS 142 Intro to Environmental Science Professor M. Roberts September 10, 2023

2 “The Silent Assassin: Microplastic Pollution in Marine Ecosystems” The seemingly inescapable presence of microplastics in marine ecosystems has alarming consequences, including harm to marine organisms, disruption of food chains, and contamination of marine habitats. Implementing comprehensive strategies to reduce plastic waste, promoting sustainable alternatives, and raising awareness about the impacts of microplastics are crucial steps in mitigating this threat in aquatic environments. Key Takeaways Picó and Barceló. (2019) Key Takeaway: By 2050, microplastics in the seas and oceans will outnumber fish. Kane and Clare (2019) Key Takeaway : The production and improper disposal of non- biodegradable plastic have led to the accumulation of microplastics in marine environments. Wright and Kelly. (2017) Key Takeaway: Microplastics can potentially pose risks to human health as they can enter the food chain through contaminated seafood and drinking water, highlighting the need for further research in this area Bartels. 2023 Key Takeaway: The amount of plastic in the ocean has brought species normally found on the coastlines to the middle of the ocean and allowed them to thrive. Andrady. (2011). Key Takeaway: The marine environment breaks down plastics and microplastics into different chemicals and those chemicals can be introduced into the food chain and ecosystem it inhabits. Analysis of Microplastics Microplastics in the environment are leading to unseen problems in the marine environment. High levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) can be found in the ocean and

3 can be ingested by marine life (Andrady, 2011). The marine life that ingests these POPs can make their way into the food chain and lead to higher levels in humans. There are different animals living in the ocean due to the garbage patch (Bartels, 2017). This can lead to different creatures co-habituating that normally do not and can disrupt the food chain due to different predators and prey Conveyance and Detection in Water Microplastics enter the ocean and reach the seafloor through various pathways, which can be significantly influenced by surface and subsurface currents (Kane & Clare, 2019). One major source is the breakdown of larger plastic items, like bottles and bags, due to weathering and erosion. A common method of collecting water samples is using nets or filters that capture microplastics to analyze them using techniques like microscopy and spectroscopy. This aids in identifying and quantifying the microplastics present. Observers then determine if they meet the criteria for microplastics based on their size, shape, and composition. This helps scientists develop a deeper knowledge regarding the extent of microplastic pollution and progress in formulating effective mitigation strategies. Human Health Concerns Microplastics in the Food Chain Potential human health risks Life in the Pacific Garbage Patch Shore based species have been found and identified in plastic debris. Ethics of destroying this new environment we created by cleaning it up. Microplastic Pollution Prevention Challenges

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