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1. OIL SPILL
- An oil spill is a significant threat to marine ecosystems and the environment, causing severe
and long-lasting impacts. An oil spill occurs when large quantities of crude oil or refined petroleum
are accidentally or intentionally released into the marine environment. One of the primary impacts of
an oil spill is the physical coating of marine organisms and their habitats. When oil spreads across the
water surface, it forms a thick layer that can smother and suffocate marine life.
This coating hinders the gas exchange between organisms and the water, leading to oxygen depletion
and subsequent death of various species. The oil can clog the feeding filters of filter-feeding
organisms, impairing their ability to obtain food and ultimately causing starvation.

2. PLASTIC WASTE
- Plastic waste refers to any discarded or unused plastic materials found on board a ship. This
can include items such as plastic packaging, containers, bags, bottles, or any other plastic products
that are no longer needed. One of the primary concerns associated with plastic waste pollution is its
detrimental effect on marine animals. Marine creatures often mistake plastic debris for food or
become entangled in it, leading to injuries, suffocation, and even death. Sea turtles, for instance, are
particularly vulnerable to plastic waste due to their feeding habits. They often ingest plastic bags,
mistaking them for jellyfish, a staple in their diet. The ingestion of plastics can cause internal
blockages, leading to malnutrition and eventual death.

3. SEWAGE DISCHARGE
- Sewage discharge refers to the release of wastewater and other contaminants from human
activities into natural bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. This can be caused by the
discharge of untreated or partially treated sewage from municipal or industrial sources. Sewage
discharge introduces a range of pollutants into marine environments, including bacteria, viruses,
chemicals, and nutrients. These contaminants degrade water quality, making it unsafe for marine
organisms.

4. CHEMICAL RUNOFF
- Chemical runoff refers to the movement of chemicals, such as pesticides, fertilizers, and other
pollutants, from agricultural fields, construction sites, industrial areas, or other sources, into nearby
water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. This type of runoff can have significant negative
impacts on aquatic ecosystems, including harmful algal blooms, fish kills, and contamination of
drinking water sources.