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Complete your research for your research text. Review the prompt again if needed:

Write a research paper on one example of how human activity affects the environment and how this problem can be solved. Include digital sources in your research, and write your paper in a way that allows you to easily turn it into a presentation.
Follow these steps:

Use a variety of sources, including both print and digital sources.
Include visuals in your search; you will need two or three for the slideshow presentation you create after you write your research text.
Record information about the sources you choose, such as author, article title, date of information, and name of source.
Take notes on the content of each source and how it connects with the writing prompt.
Complete your Research Text Planner when you have identified enough sources for your project.

write it like a 10th grader include sources and citations no pictures or graphs

1 answer

The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life and Solutions for a Sustainable Future

Introduction

Human activity has drastically altered the environment, with one of the most pressing concerns being plastic pollution, particularly in our oceans. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), an estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic waste enter the oceans every year (NOAA, 2019). This research paper will explore the effects of plastic pollution on marine life, outline the causes of this issue, and propose viable solutions to mitigate the problem.

The Problem of Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution is characterized by the accumulation of plastic products and microplastics in the environment, specifically marine systems. Marine animals often ingest plastic debris, mistaking it for food, which can lead to injury, poisoning, or even death. A study published in the journal Science estimated that around 700 species of marine organisms are affected by marine debris, with over 100 species suffering from entanglement (Wilcox et al., 2015).

Additionally, the degradation of larger plastic items into microplastics poses a risk to the entire food web. Microplastics can absorb harmful chemicals from the surrounding seawater, which then enter the food chain when consumed by smaller marine organisms. Research indicates that these toxins can accumulate in the bodies of larger predators, including humans, who consume seafood (Rochman et al., 2016).

Causes of Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution arises from various human activities. First and foremost, the excessive production and consumption of single-use plastic products, such as bags, bottles, and straws, contribute significantly to the problem. A report by the World Economic Forum reveals that without drastic changes, plastic production is expected to double by 2030 (World Economic Forum, 2016).

Another contributing factor is the inadequate waste management systems in many parts of the world. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, an estimated 3 billion people lack access to waste management services, leading to improper disposal of plastic waste (UNEP, 2018). Furthermore, littering and illegal dumping exacerbate plastic pollution, especially in coastal areas.

Solutions to Plastic Pollution

To effectively combat plastic pollution, multiple solutions must be implemented. First, reducing plastic production and consumption is crucial. Governments can legislate against single-use plastics, encouraging the use of sustainable alternatives such as biodegradable materials. For example, countries like France and Canada have introduced bans on plastic bags and straws, promoting reusable options instead (OECD, 2019).

Secondly, improving waste management is essential. Investment in recycling facilities and waste collection services can significantly reduce the volume of plastic that ends up in oceans. The Ocean Conservancy suggests adopting circular economy principles, where plastic materials are reused, recycled, and reintroduced into the production process (Ocean Conservancy, 2020).

Lastly, public education and awareness campaigns can promote responsible consumption behaviors. By educating individuals on the ecological consequences of plastic pollution, communities can rally together to adopt more sustainable habits. Initiatives like beach clean-up events and local recycling drives can foster community involvement and encourage environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

Plastic pollution is a pressing environmental issue that significantly impacts marine life and ecosystems. By addressing the root causes of plastic production and consumption, improving waste management systems, and raising public awareness, we can implement effective solutions to mitigate this problem. Collaborative efforts on both local and global levels are essential for fostering a healthier planet for future generations.

Works Cited

  • NOAA. (2019). Marine Debris Impacts. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Retrieved from https://marinedebris.noaa.gov
  • Rochman, C. M., Hoh, E., Kalloo, G., et al. (2016). Anthropogenic debris in seafood: Plastics in the stomachs of fishes. Environmental Science & Technology, 50(12), 6748–6754.
  • Wilcox, C., Dunphy-Daly, M. M., et al. (2015). Threat of plastic pollution to marine mammals: A global review. Science, 347(6223), 47-52.
  • World Economic Forum. (2016). The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the Future of Plastics. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org
  • OECD. (2019). Reducing the Use of Plastic: A Review of Policies in 45 Countries. Retrieved from https://www.oecd.org
  • UNEP. (2018). Single-Use Plastics: A Roadmap for Sustainability. United Nations Environment Programme. Retrieved from https://www.unep.org
  • Ocean Conservancy. (2020). The Problem with Plastic Pollution: Understanding the Impact of Plastics on Our Ocean. Retrieved from https://oceanconservancy.org

This research paper can now easily be transformed into a presentation by organizing the key points into slides, utilizing visuals such as graphs or photos of plastic pollution, and summarizing concepts for quick reference. Each section of the paper can represent a different slide or set of slides, allowing for easy digestion of the material during the presentation.