Welden, N. A. (2020) The environmental impacts of plastic pollution. In: Letcher, T. M. (ed.) Plastic Waste and Recycling: Environmental Impact, Societal Issues, Prevention, and Solutions. Academic Press: London, pp. 195-222. ISBN 9780128178805 (doi: 10.1016/B978-0-12-817880-5.00008-6)
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Abstract
Globally, mass production of polymers and poor control of plastic products at end of life have led to annual increases in plastic entering the marine environment. Their durability and density allow plastic to be transported over large distances and to persist for long periods in the marine environment. The proliferation of plastics has resulting in contamination across a range of environments, from remote lakes to the deepest oceans; however, the effects in the marine environment remain the most studied. Here, plastic have been observed to negatively affect habitats by altering species distribution, entangling organisms, and causing damage and even increasing mortality as a result of ingestion. Nevertheless, the increasing number of studies in freshwater environments may help to predict previously unexplored impacts in the marine realm.
| Item Type: | Book Sections |
|---|---|
| Keywords: | Entanglement, ingestion, litter, macroplastic, marine debris, polymer. |
| Status: | Published |
| Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: | Welden, Dr Natalie |
| Authors: | Welden, N. A. |
| Subjects: | G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GE Environmental Sciences |
| College/School: | College of Social Sciences > School of Social & Environmental Sustainability |
| Publisher: | Academic Press |
| ISBN: | 9780128178805 |
| Published Online: | 13 March 2020 |
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