Oceans are vital to the environmental well-being of the planet because they have a range of functions. For example, they produce over one-half of the global oxygen amount and absorb fifty times more carbon dioxide compared to the atmosphere. Nevertheless, oceans continue being polluted by the by-products of manufacturing, consumption, and oil, and other resource mining. The range of adverse outcomes for ocean ecosystems can be discussed in volumes; however, the current discussion will focus on trash in the ocean waters, acidification, and the disruption of the marine life cycles.
Trash pollution is of concern when it comes to ocean ecosystems. Any trash that is disposed of by humans includes human-made solid materials abandoned in waterways, beaches, and the ocean itself. Plastic, paper, wood, metal, and other non-organic materials can be found near water sources worldwide as well as the depths of oceans. According to the Ocean Health Index (2019), between 60% and 80% of marine pollutants are plastic. Each year, 8 million metric tons of plastic debris enter the ocean waters, with around 150 metric tons already circulating in the marine environment (Ocean Conservancy, 2019). Trash contained in ocean waters can be hazardous to marine life and lead to the death of animals. Small plastic or metal waste can be consumed by smaller organisms, which are later consumed by larger ones. Thus, debris makes its way up the marine life food chain and can return to people’s food.
Ocean acidification refers to the steady decrease in the pH level of waters that is triggered by the inflow of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Since the occurrence of the industrial revolution and the rise of production, the volume of carbon dioxide has increased. Absorbed by ocean waters, the chemical leads to a series of reactions that result in the increased concentration of hydrogen ions. This, in turn, makes seawater more acidic since the carbonate ions decreased in amounts. The latter represent essential components of contributing to the health of such organisms as seashells and corals. Carbonate ions are crucial for sustaining the health of ocean ecosystems because they reinforce calcium carbonate structures that fuel other forms such as clams, oysters, deep-sea corals, calcareous plankton, and multiple others. Non-calcifying ocean organisms also suffer from acidification (NOAA, 2013). For instance, such fish as pollock loses their ability to detect predators while larval clownfish cannot detect suitable habitats.
With the increased pollution of ocean waters, marine ecosystems steadily deteriorate. Whether the oceans are polluted by oil spills or debris, sea life is challenged to a great extent. For example, oil spills can float to the surface of the water and prevent light from reaching plants and other organisms, thus affecting photosynthesis. Over prolonged periods, marine life is subjected to such problems as eye and skin irritation as well as liver and lung problems. Agricultural and industrial waste in the form of chemicals represent risks for ocean animals. Pesticides can accumulate in their fatty tissues and limit animals’ reproductive function.
To conclude, it is essential to mention that reducing the impact of pollutants on ocean ecosystems is only possible with radical action. Governments, corporations, and consumers must come together to regulate the production and the use of disposable materials and resources as well as establish policies limiting the discharge of harmful elements into oceans.
References
NOAA. (2013).Ocean acidification. Web.
Ocean Conservancy. (2019). Fighting for trash free seas.Web.
Ocean Health Index. (2019). Trash pollution: Overview.Web.