Abstract:
Marine debris originates from a large range of causes. Materials that are illegally disposed of and that are incorrectly transferred or deposited may become aquatic waste. Plastics, glass, metal, paper, fabric, rubber and wood are the most widespread marine debris. Plastic is what comes to mind when one speaks about sea pollution. Plastic bags are able to enclose and suffocate marine mammals, whales, seabirds and sea turtles. Marine debris is a rising global concern that is wreaking havoc on the atmosphere and the economy. It obstructs navigation, entangles birds, pollutes beaches, and much more. Of the two beaches surveyed Orchard Beach in Bronx Ny and Long Beach in Stratford CT, the most common found marine debris was cigarette butts, food wrappers and plastic bottle/caps.