Unified Journal of Environmental Science and Toxicology
August 2016 Vol 1(2), pp. 014-025
Copyright © 2016 Unified Journals
Original Research Article
Plastic Marine Debris: Sources, Distribution and Impacts on Coastal and Ocean Biodiversity
Prabhakar R. Pawar*, Sanket S. Shirgaonkar& Rahul B. Patil
Veer Wajekar Arts, Science & Commerce College, Mahalan Vibhag, Phunde, Tal. - Uran, Dist. - Raigad, Navi Mumbai - 400 702, Maharashtra, India
Corresponding Author's Email: prpawar1962@gmail.com
Accepted 5 February, 2016
Abstract
Marine debris is a globally recognized environmental issue of increasing concern. Marine ecosystems worldwide are affected by human-made refuse, much of which is plastic. Marine debris includes consumer items such as glass or plastic bottles, cans, bags, balloons, rubber, metal, fiberglass, cigarettes, and other manufactured materials that end up in the ocean and along the coast. It also includes fishing gear such as line, ropes, hooks, buoys and other materials lost on or near land, or intentionally or unintentionally discarded at sea. Debris in oceans and seas is an aesthetic problem, incurs considerable costs and can have severe impacts on marine organisms and habitats. This review focuses on plastic marine debris with respect to: (1) definition and types; (2) sources & distribution; (3) environmental impacts of on coastal and ocean biodiversity; and (4) effective solutions to tackle the plastic marine debris.
Keywords: Plastics marine debris, Entanglement, Ingestion, Marine environment, Pollution.
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Cite This Article
Prabhakar R. Pawar, Sanket S. Shirgaonkar and Rahul B. Patil.Plastic Marine Debris: Sources, Distribution and Impacts on Coastal and Ocean Biodiversity. Unified Journal of Environmental Science and Toxicology. 1(2) 2016 pp. 014-025.
