Animals Entangled In Plastic

Plastic Pollution Threatens Marine Life

Over 1,500 Endangered Marine Animals Killed by Plastic in a Decade

Nearly 1,800 animals from 40 different species swallowed or became entangled in plastic between 2009 and 2018

A recent study has revealed the devastating impact of plastic pollution on marine life. Researchers surveyed dozens of government agencies, organizations, and institutions that collect data on plastic ingestion and entanglement. Their findings showed that over 1,500 endangered marine animals were killed by plastic between 2009 and 2018.

Entanglement and Ingestion of Plastic

Animals can become entangled in plastic debris, such as fishing nets, ropes, and plastic bags. This entanglement can restrict movement, cause injury, and lead to drowning or starvation. Animals can also ingest plastic, mistaking it for food. This can lead to blockages in the digestive tract, nutrient deficiencies, and poisoning.

Impact on Flesh-footed Shearwaters

Flesh-footed shearwaters, large sooty brown seabirds that nest on islands off the coasts of Australia and New Zealand, are particularly vulnerable to plastic pollution. A large proportion of flesh-footed shearwaters ingest plastic, and this has been linked to a decline in their population. Researchers estimate that over 20,000 flesh-footed shearwaters have died from plastic ingestion since 2009.

Conclusion

The study's findings highlight the urgent need to address plastic pollution. Plastic pollution is a major threat to marine life, and it is only getting worse. We need to take action to reduce plastic consumption, improve waste management, and develop innovative solutions to prevent plastic from entering our oceans.