Plastic in the ocean for a test

What is marine debris?

Marine debris is human-made materials that enter the ocean, often including plastics.

Main source of ocean plastic?

Land-based sources like littering, inadequate waste management, and storm runoff contribute significantly.

True or false: Plastic is biodegradable.

False, because plastic can take hundreds of years to decompose, posing long-term risks.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm, often resulting from larger plastic breakdown.

Fill in the blank: The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is primarily composed of _____ plastic.

floating

Difference between primary and secondary microplastics?

Primary microplastics are manufactured that way, while secondary ones result from larger plastics breaking down.

What is ocean acidification?

Ocean acidification is the decrease in pH levels due to CO2 absorption, affecting marine life.

Impact of plastic ingestion on marine animals?

Ingestion can cause internal injuries, starvation, and even death for marine animals.

Which marine animal is often affected by plastic entanglement?

Sea turtles frequently get entangled in plastic waste like fishing nets and six-pack rings.

What percentage of ocean plastic is from land-based sources?

Approximately 80% of ocean plastic originates from land-based sources.

True or false: All plastics float.

False, because some plastics can sink, especially when they accumulate biofouling.

What is the role of ocean currents in plastic distribution?

Ocean currents transport plastics across vast distances, creating accumulations in certain areas.

How can individuals reduce ocean plastic pollution?

Individuals can reduce plastic use, participate in clean-ups, and support recycling programs.

Which organization focuses on reducing ocean plastic?

The Ocean Conservancy organizes initiatives to combat ocean plastic pollution.