Oceans and PollutionOnline version Learn about oceans and how pollution affects them. by Purposefully Green 1 Introduction to the Ocean The ocean covers most of Earth and supports amazing life. It also helps regulate climate and provides food and travel for people. 2 What is Pollution? Pollution is when harmful substances enter water, air, or soil. In the ocean, pollution harms plants, animals, and people who rely on healthy seas. 3 Source of Ocean Pollution Pollution comes from everyday actions: trash, chemicals, oil spills, and farm runoff. Some waste travels far from shore into distant waters. 4 Plastic in the Ocean Plastic waste can take hundreds of years to break down. Marine animals may swallow or get tangled, causing injury or death. 5 Effects on Marine Life Pollution interferes with feeding, reproduction, and habitat. Coral reefs and fish populations decline when water quality drops. 6 Effects on Human Health Contaminated seafood and polluted beaches can cause illnesses. Clean oceans protect nutrition, recreation, and communities around coasts. 7 Common Pollutants Key pollutants include plastic, oil, pesticides, heavy metals, and sewage. All can harm water quality and living creatures in the sea. 8 Why It Matters Healthy oceans support climate balance, biodiversity, and livelihoods. Protecting them ensures a thriving planet for future generations. 9 What We Can Do Reduce waste, recycle, pick up litter, and choose sustainable products. Small actions add up to big ocean protection over time. 10 Take Action Together Join beach cleanups, spread awareness, and teach others about plastic-free choices. Protecting oceans starts with our daily habits and care.
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