Effects on Ecosystems

Shoreline litter can harm ecosystems in a number of ways.

It can smother plants and small organisms. It can block light needed for photosynthesis.

It can transport organisms such as fungi, mollusks and insects to areas where they wouldn't normally be found.

These invasive species often end up damaging their new habitats.

Shoreline litter can degrade water quality. Discarded items  such as paint cans, oilcans and batteries leak dangerous chemicals into the water, and plastic can release a number of toxins when it breaks down.

Shoreline litter can harm the food web. Leached chemicals, algal growth, and PH changes all adversely affect the health of the many invertebrates and microscopic organisms that are so vital to the smooth running of an ecosystem.