A recent study uncovered the extensive depths to which plastic particles are polluting our oceans, raising concerns over greater environmental effects.
What's happening?
As explained by Down to Earth, a study published in the journal Nature revealed that microplastics were found to be embedded deep within ocean waters.
"High abundances have been consistently observed in deep waters, including … 13,500 particles per [cubic meter] at 6,800 [meters] in the Mariana Trench," the study stated, per Down to Earth, with several other measurements across the world cited.
Reaching such depths within the ocean's structure creates a potential environmental crisis.
According to Down to Earth, the researchers warned that plastic debris "now represented a measurable component of the ocean's carbon cycle," and that plastic pollution "adds external carbon (called allochthonous carbon) to marine ecosystems."
In addition to polluting the waters, this can disrupt biogeochemical processes needed for ecological balance and put marine life at risk.
Why is this important?
Microplastics are tiny particles that are incredibly pervasive. They have been known to be present across multiple parts of the environment, from the deep ocean to the air we breathe.
These particles can accumulate in our bodies when unknowingly ingested, and while the health effects are still being explored, research has shown that they can potentially make us more vulnerable to various health issues such as cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, Alzheimer's, lung disorders and fertility issues.
When microplastics pollute the ocean, they can also affect the health of multiple species. For example, coral reefs, which are vital to marine biodiversity, are becoming hubs for microplastic accumulation. This can infect the corals with harmful chemicals and potentially be ingested by organisms that rely on the reefs, increasing the risk of health issues and death.
According to Down to Earth, this study "marked the first time researchers [analyzed microplastics'] vertical distribution across depths in such detail." The impact of microplastics on the ocean's carbon cycle carries "major implications for marine carbon dating."
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Down to Earth noted that the researchers "called for long-term studies to better understand the impact of plastics in their biological cycles."
Governments and communities around the world have explored initiatives to reduce plastic pollution, such as European Union member states banning certain single-use plastics, or the potential plastic bag ban in stores in Montgomery County, Maryland.
You can help in the fight against plastic pollution by reducing your plastic use and avoiding single-use items in favor of reusable products. You can also support ocean cleanup efforts to help slow the accumulation of microplastics in marine ecosystems.
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