In the modern era, plastic has become an integral part of our daily lives, used in almost everything from bags and packaging to household and industrial items. With its ease of use and long biodegradability, plastic has transformed from a blessing into a curse, especially when it ends up in seas and oceans.<br />The Scale of the Problem<br />It is estimated that more than 8 million tons of plastic waste are dumped into the oceans annually. This waste collects in massive gyres in the seas, such as the Great Pacific Gyre, which contains millions of pieces of plastic.<br />The Impact of Plastic on Marine Life<br />Suffocation and Death: Marine creatures such as turtles, dolphins, and seabirds swallow small pieces of plastic, mistaking them for food, which can lead to digestive blockages and death.<br />Entanglement: Many animals become entangled in plastic nets or rings, which can impede their movement or lead to serious injuries.<br /> Transfer of Toxins: Plastic does not decompose easily, but rather breaks down into small pieces called microplastics. These pieces absorb toxic substances and travel through the food chain, eventually reaching humans.<br />Plastic and Humans<br />Eating fish and seafood contaminated with microplastics can lead to long-term health problems. The decline of marine life also affects the marine economy, tourism, and fishing.<br />Possible Solutions<br />Reducing plastic use: For example, eliminating plastic bags and replacing them with cloth bags.<br />Recycling: Sorting waste and reusing plastic reduces its amount in the environment.<br />Beach clean-up campaigns: Effective community efforts to remove waste from coasts before it reaches the sea.<br />Environmental awareness: Spreading awareness among people about the dangers of plastic helps change everyday behaviors.<br />Conclusion<br />Plastic waste poses a real threat to oceans and marine life, and it's time to change our behavior towards this danger. If government, community, and individual efforts combine, we can protect our seas and our planet for future generations.<br />Al _ Mustaqbal University, the first university in Iraq<br />Prepared by: Shahad Nawras Abbas<br />