Marine Pollution and Human Impact

The health of our oceans is under severe threat due to human activities. Marine pollution, overfishing, climate change, and habitat destruction are disrupting marine ecosystems and endangering biodiversity. Addressing these issues is crucial for protecting life on Earth and preserving natural resources.

Types of Marine Pollution

Plastic Pollution: Over 11 million tons of plastic enter the ocean every year. Microplastics are now found in marine animals, drinking water, and even human blood. Source
Oil Spills: Large oil spills, such as Deepwater Horizon, cause long-term damage to marine life and ecosystems. Source
Chemical Runoff: Agricultural fertilizers and pesticides flow into oceans, triggering algal blooms that create oxygen-depleted dead zones. Source
Sewage: Raw or inadequately treated sewage pollutes coastal waters, threatening coral reefs and marine species. Source

Human Impacts on Marine Ecosystems

Overfishing: Nearly 90% of fish stocks are either fully exploited or overfished, threatening global food security. Source
Coral Bleaching: Rising sea temperatures due to climate change are causing coral reefs to bleach and die, affecting thousands of marine species. Source
Ocean Acidification: The ocean absorbs excess carbon dioxide, lowering pH levels and harming shell-forming organisms like oysters and plankton. Source
Habitat Destruction: Practices like bottom trawling and coastal development destroy essential habitats such as mangroves, seagrass beds, and estuaries. Source