Marine Pollution and Waste Management

Abstract

Water covers more than 70% of the surface of the globe. The ocean, which is amazing and significantly controls the world's climate, also has a hidden crisis, namely marine pollution. In the modern world, marine pollution is becoming a bigger issue. Article 1 (1) (4) of UNCLOS : says that “Pollution of the marine environment” means the introduction by man, directly or indirectly, of substances or energy into the marine environment, including estuaries, which results or is likely to result in such deleterious effects as harm to living resources and marine life, hazards to human health, a hindrance to marine activities, including fishing and other legitimate uses of the sea, impairment of quality for use of seawater and reduction of amenities”. Chemicals and garbage, most of which originate on land and are blown or carried into the water, are the two main components of marine pollution. Marine pollution, caused by human activities like improper disposal, shipping, and overfishing, harms ecology, health, and global economic institutions. Solutions include international agreements, sustainable fishing, improved waste disposal, and raising awareness. Education-based campaigns have the power to inspire citizens, groups, and governments to action. The legislative reforms and sustainable practices are significantly aided by environmental organizations and advocacy groups. The government has made several notable efforts, such as the plastic ban, marine protected areas, clean-up programs, and environmentally friendly fishing. Several countries have enacted plastic bags, which have significantly reduced the amount of plastic pollution, while the ocean may not be affected. Creating marine protected zones helps safeguard biodiversity and gives damaged ecosystems a place to recover. This article gives a general overview of the complex issue of marine pollution and shows how important it is to have efficient waste management plans. It investigates diverse marine pollution types and causes, emphasizing the dangers it poses, such as biodiversity loss, potential health hazards for humans, and significant financial expenses.