Plastic Pollution Threatens Endangered Sea Turtles

A recent study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals the alarming threat that plastic pollution, particularly from single-use plastic bottles, poses to endangered sea turtles.

Researchers analyzed data from over 10,000 autopsies of marine creatures that died from ingesting plastic, finding that nearly 1,300 marine species, including all sea turtle species, are affected. The study quantifies the risk of mortality due to plastic ingestion, indicating a 90% chance of death if a sea turtle consumes 405 pieces of plastic, with juveniles at risk after ingesting 377 pieces.

Sea turtles, which had the highest frequency of plastic ingestion among marine species, showed that nearly 50% had ingested plastic, compared to 35% of seabirds and 12% of marine mammals. The types of plastics consumed varied by life stage, with post-hatchling sea turtles primarily ingesting hard plastics, while adults consumed more fishing debris and soft plastics.

The study emphasizes the urgent need for policy changes to address plastic pollution, as the current production of nearly half a billion tons of plastic each year significantly outpaces efforts to manage plastic waste.

The authors advocate for setting plastic distribution thresholds to mitigate environmental impacts and promote clean-up initiatives as essential strategies to combat this growing crisis. By raising awareness and implementing bans on problematic materials, such as balloon releases and plastic bags, communities can contribute to reducing marine pollution and protecting vulnerable species like sea turtles.