MICROPLASTIC PRESSURE ON MARINE MAMMALS AND PROTECTED AREAS

Abstract

Plastic pollution is ubiquitous in marine habitats, affecting many marine species and presenting a major threat to the health of organisms and ecosystems. There has been a growing interest and awareness of the pressure represented by microplastics in particular. However, there remain many uncertainties regarding the risks posed by microplastics towards specific taxa, habitats, and in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The main aim of my thesis is to analyse the probable exposure of plastics to the natural environment globally. First, I describe the potential exposure risk of microplastics to marine mammals, identifying highly vulnerable species and hotspots of microplastic encounters. Secondly, I analyse potential plastic exposure risks in MPAs and three key marine habitats, namely coral reefs, mangrove forests, and seagrass beds, the first time such a habitat-based framework will be applied to estimations of plastic impact. Together, these two chapters will add to our understanding of the potential pressures of plastic pollution on key aspects of the marine environment.