New Study Links Microplastics To Reduced Ocean Carbon Absorption

A new study in the Journal of Hazardous Materials: Plastics reveals microplastics (under 5mm) reduce ocean CO₂ absorption by disrupting phytoplankton photosynthesis and zooplankton metabolism in the biological carbon pump, while the “plastisphere” microbial communities on plastics emit GHGs during degradation. This pollution weakens oceans—the planet’s largest carbon sink—exacerbating warming, acidification, biodiversity loss, and coastal food insecurity. Researchers from China, Hong Kong, Pakistan, and UAE urge curbing plastic production, better waste management, and further study on microplastic-climate interactions.
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