Plastic debris in the coastal and marine ecosystem: A menace that needs concerted efforts

Abstract

Plastics are versatile polymers and their application in variety of sectors has transformed day-to-day human life. Their use is increasing day-by-day. As a result, plastic debris is on the rise, and concerns the politicians, media, scientists, industry and the public. The plastic debris reaches coastal and marine environments as their ultimate sink and is accumulating around the world, even in the remote and uninhabited coastal environments. The marine organisms are facing the danger of possible entanglement, ingestion, habitat destruction and bio-invasion. The presence of debris affects the aesthetic and recreational value, causing considerable economic loss. The human health and safety is also threatened by the plastic debris. Considering the effect of plastics in the environment, a balanced approach should be followed in using the plastics. Educating the stakeholders for the wise and judicious use of plastics with appropriate disposal and cleanup strategies would help in managing the plastic debris to protect our coastal and marine ecosystem.