Impact of plastics on the environment

Impact of plastics on the environment Many people are exposed to dangers associated with plastic production every day. Wastes resulting from plastics products find their way into water bodies where they act as transport means for microorganisms which end up in marine habitats such as seas causing infections to organisms living in water.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Impact of plastics on the environment specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More When plastic degrades, it produces plastic dust which causes pollution to aquatic animals. In addition, this dust causes contamination of human consumer goods especially food products posing a great threat to human health. Aquatic animals that feed on fish may mistake plastics for jellyfish and consume them and this may lead to death of such animals. In other cases, plastics that have been disposed in landfills may cause leaching of chemicals which end up in water bodies causing contamination (Uciha, 2010, p. 1). Imprope r disposal of plastics may have physical impacts on birds where they entangle them to death. The entangled birds may as well be deposited in water bodies alongside the plastics during which they may chock the fish. Impact of mercury on the environment Mercury is one of the most important life threatening chemicals to humans. Mercury exists in many products especially scientific ones. When released through degradation, it is referred to as methylmercury and finds its way into water bodies from where it is ingested by man (Uciha, 2010, p. 1). It has adverse effects such as reducing the capability of the human immune system and affecting the normal functioning of human enzymes, genes and the nervous system. Animals that feed on fish are also affected in a similar manner. However, mercury resulting from broken thermometers is not as much toxic although it may cause gingivitis to those who inhale it. Impact of natural gas and oil production on the environment Extraction of oil produces t oxic substances that may be lethal to aquatic life. Humans may also suffer cardiovascular problems due to such toxic substances. Pathways of photosynthesis may as well be blocked especially where dynamite is being used for extraction, leading to low production of food (Uciha, 2010, p. 1). Reference List Uciha, A. (2010). Environmental impact. Web.Advertising Looking for essay on environmental studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More