What are some other effects?

Human Impacts

• Fisherman and boater safety are jeopardized when aquatic debris fouls propellers and clogs intake ports.
• Discarded or lost fishing nets continue to capture fish, resulting in economic loss to fishermen, as well as needlessly killing wildlife.
• Divers are at risk of becoming entangled in aquatic debris, which can lead to injury and even death!
• Economic losses can occur within the travel industry, as litter-ridden beaches discourage tourism.
• Human health is at risk upon contact with medial and personal hygiene items discarded into the environment.

Habitat Impacts
Garbage negatively affects vegetation by covering and smothering plants.
Once covered, plants are deprived of sunlight, the energy source needed for growth. Heavy trash items will not only block sunlight but also crush and tear away plants as they move in and out with tides.

Water Quality Impacts
Improperly discarded chemical containers can seriously affect water quality. For example, if a bottle of motor oil is discarded into the water the remaining oil residue may be washed out into the environment. This could happen with many hazardous/poisonous chemicals such as antifreeze, batteries, fertilizer, paint thinner and bleach.