The deleterious effects of plastic debris on the marine environment were reviewed by bringing together most of the literature
published so far on the topic. A large number of marine species is known to be harmed and/or killed by plastic debris, which could
jeopardize their survival, especially since many are already endangered by other forms of anthropogenic activities. Marine animals
are mostly affected through entanglement in and ingestion of plastic litter. Other less known threats include the use of plastic debris
by ‘‘invader’’ species and the absorption of polychlorinated biphenyls from ingested plastics. Less conspicuous forms, such as plastic
pellets and ‘‘scrubbers’’ are also hazardous. To address the problem of plastic debris in the oceans is a difficult task, and a variety of
approaches are urgently required. Some of the ways to mitigate the problem are discussed.
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