How does pollution affect the oceans?

            The vastness and volume of oceans often make us think if oceans can be really polluted. However, Man’s wayward interventions and irresponsible use of natural resources have had alarming effects on the pollution levels of the hydrosphere.

            Pollution of the oceans is quickly becoming a disturbing problem. The world’s oceans are a virtual dumping ground for trash. Sometimes the garbage includes the junked fishing nets, plastics and even general household garbage.

            Garbage in the oceans is a serious issue as fish and other marine organisms entangle themselves in fishing nets. Many sea animals eat trash products and die.

            Sewage is yet another major cause of ocean pollution. When people dispose of sewage in the ocean, there will often be algae blooms in the water. Algae blooms lead to the loss of dissolved oxygen. When the oxygen level in the water comes down, many organisms in the ocean die from being unable to breathe properly.

            Another key cause of water pollution is the release of heavy metals into the water by industries. These elements collect in the tissues of predator animals such as whales and sharks.

            Pollution affects the fish that we consume too. You may have heard that some kind of fish has high mercury level in its body; and therefore, is harmful to humans when consumed.

Picture Credit : Google