Study Highlights Deadly Impact of Single-Use Plastics on Marine Life
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences has revealed the severe impact of plastic ingestion on marine life, documenting cases in nearly 1,300 marine species. The study analyzed data from over 10,000 autopsies of marine creatures, including seabirds, marine mammals, and sea turtles, which died due to plastic ingestion. The findings indicate a 90% likelihood of death when certain thresholds of plastic ingestion are met. For instance, seabirds face a 90% mortality risk after ingesting 23 pieces of plastic, while sea turtles face the same risk after consuming 405 pieces. The study highlights the types of plastics posing the greatest risks, such as rubber for seabirds and soft plastics for marine mammals. The research underscores the urgent need for action to manage plastic waste and reduce marine pollution. 
