New research into the impact of plastic waste on vital coastal ecosystems along India's western coast has revealed an alarming development. 

What's happening?

Researchers surveyed seven mangrove habitats along the coast of India's Goa region to evaluate the impact of anthropogenic litter pollution. An article by the Times of India reports that the researchers rated all seven of the sites "extremely dirty." A proliferation of carelessly discarded waste, particularly single-use plastics, is causing immense harm to these vital ecosystems.

The pollution is obstructing both water flow and nutrient cycling in the forests and is being ingested by marine wildlife in the area. A little over two-thirds of the litter items were plastic, and the study determined they originated from individual households, run-off from landfills, and improperly discarded fishing gear. 

Why is pollution in mangroves such a concern?

It's hard to overstate how vital protecting mangrove forests truly is. As the World Wildlife Fund notes, they're a key habitat for many species, and those dense coastal forests sequester vast amounts of carbon. Moreover, they're key in stabilizing coastlines and reducing erosion from storms and rising tides.

In addition to pollution, mangroves are threatened by deforestation, habitat destruction, and rising sea levels. The International Union for Conservation of Nature projects that more than half of the world's mangroves could be lost by 2050. 

What's being done about mangrove pollution?

The study concluded that, as helpful as local community efforts to clean up the forests are, they are only a temporary solution to a broader issue. Instead, the emphasis should be on preventing plastic waste from entering waterways in the first place. The study calls for increased public awareness of the problem and improved infrastructure for waste management.

It concludes with a call for further study into the issue: "The findings underscore the importance of further research on how litter impacts mangrove recruitment, growth, and survival, which could provide valuable insights into the resilience of the region's coastal mangroves."

Do you think America does a good job of protecting its natural beauty? Definitely 👍 Only in some areas ☝️ No way 👎 I'm not sure 🤷 Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.