Plastic pollution on coral reefs

The impact of microplastics on coral reef ecosystems

How to prevent plastic waste from reaching coral reefs



Frequently asked questions about plastic pollution and coral reefs

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plastic pollution on coral reefs

What is plastic pollution and how does it affect coral reefs

In addition to other well-known stressors, such as climatic change and overfishing 1, plastic pollution is an emerging threat to coral reefs, spreading throughout reef food webs 2, and. Plastic debris on coral reefs creates a perfect storm for disease transmission and chemical contamination. Research shows that when plastic waste comes into contact with coral tissues, it increases the likelihood of disease outbreaks by up to 20 times.

Top organizations fighting plastic pollution in coral reef areas

  • Best practices for reducing plastic use to protect coral reefs

    Marine debris can be harmful to coral reefs. Recycle your trash at home and on the go (especially plastic), and remember the three R’s (reduce, reuse, and recycle). When disposing of trash, do it properly in bins, to avoid trash being blown or washed away into waterways and oceans.

    What is plastic pollution and how does it affect coral reefs

      The impact of microplastics on coral reef ecosystems

      Coral reefs, among the most biodiverse ecosystems providing critical ecological services, are increasingly exposed to microplastics (MPs), an emerging contaminant of concern found throughout freshwater and marine environments.