The Plastic Crisis

by · June 15, 2021

Plastics are the most common form of marine debris. They can come from a variety of land and ocean-based sources; enter the water in many ways; and impact the ocean and Great Lakes. Once in the water, plastic debris never fully biodegrades. Yellow text in the above graphic shows sources of plastic that eventually end up in the ocean. Orange text shows ways that these plastics move into the ocean. Red text provides examples of the harmful impacts of this debris. Image credit: NOAA Marine Debris Program

Editor’s note: This is part of a series for #SeaTurtleWeek highlighting some of the threats faced by sea turtles today. A different threat will be highlighted each day. For more information on other Sea Turtle Week activities offered by the Sea Turtle Preservation Society, please go to our website or visit us on Facebook and Instagram.

Sea turtles and other marine life face growing threats from plastic and other debris.

Sea turtles often mistake plastic bags and other plastic items, such as straws and wrappers, for food sources. A plastic bag looks much like a jellyfish in the water.

Ingested plastic may damage a sea turtle’s digestive system or keep it from eating enough nutritious items. Hatchlings are opportunistic eaters. More than 90 percent of hatchlings have been found to have ingested plastics.

Sea turtles also may become entangled in marine debris, such as fishing line, ropes, and nets.

Beaches littered with plastic debris pose a hazard to nesting adult sea turtles and hatchlings headed to the ocean.

Here are some simple steps you can take to make a difference:

  • Refuse single-use plastic items

By choosing reusable water bottles, shopping bags, straws, utensils, and other items, you are reducing plastic waste.

  • Choose plastic-free options

When shopping or eating out, consider the amount of plastic packaging that a product is in and frequent businesses and restaurants that do not use polystyrene or plastic containers.

  • Recycle discarded fishing line

Properly dispose of monofilament fishing line, ropes and other fishing gear to keep plastic out of waterways.

  • Pick up litter

If you see trash or debris, place it in a trash or recycling bin.

  • Share what you know

By talking with others, you can raise awareness about the threat of plastic pollution and ways to help make a difference.

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