International Journal of Marine Science, 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 21-28 http://www.aquapublisher.com/index.php/ijms 26 surface temperatures, potentially impacting the distribution and decomposition of plastic waste in the deep ocean. This has potential impacts on deep ecosystems, as deep organisms may have different interactions and adaptation strategies with plastic waste. Figure 5 Distribution and transportation mechanism of plastic waste in the deep sea of the northern South China Sea (Image source: http://www.idsse.cas.cn/yjjz2015/2021/202102/t20210208_5890973.html) The rise in temperature has brought about various complex effects on marine plastic waste, encompassing its decomposition, distribution, biological interactions, and environmental consequences. These impacts pose potential threats to marine ecosystems and organisms. Therefore, reducing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate climate change, coupled with enhancing plastic waste management and cleanup measures, is a crucial step in safeguarding the marine environment. 3.2 Plastic waste's impact on marine life Plastic waste has wide-ranging and severe impacts on marine life, which may be entangled or ingested by plastic waste, leading to physical injury or death. Plastic waste such as plastic bags, fishing nets, and various plastic fragments can wrap around body parts such as fins, mouth, and gills, causing injury, suffocation, or starvation. Many marine species mistakenly perceive plastic waste as food, directly affecting their health. For instance, sea turtles might ingest plastic bags, getting obstructed and unable to feed, resulting in malnutrition and stunted growth. Birds and whales may also ingest plastic fragments, negatively impacting their digestive systems and overall health (Carol, 2013). Chemical substances in plastic waste, such as phthalates and polyvinyl chloride
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