Research reveals that parts of the Pacific Ocean have six times more plastic particles than plankton, the source of life. One major problem with fossil-fuel based plastics is that they are non-biodegradable. While plastics can break down into minute pieces, they may not completely degrade for a 1,000 years, and are mistaken for food by the tiniest of species, as well as larger marine animals.

Albatross Carcass Filled With Plastic

Photo Courtesy of Algalita Marine Research Foundation