Global warming substantially amplifies the adverse impact of plastic pollution on the biosphere, exposing living organisms to heightened peril. As ambient temperature rises, the toxic effect of polymers increases, causing retarded growth, reduced fertility, and greater mortality among a broad array of creatures—from freshwater zooplankton to agricultural crops. This is reported in a systematic review published in the scientific journal Frontiers in Science.
A team of researchers led by Frank Kelly from Imperial College London reviewed over 230 scientific papers concerning the combined influence of temperature shifts and plastics. The investigators examined the outcomes at all levels of life organization—from individual cells to entire ecosystems. Experts suggest that accelerated oxidation, photodegradation, and hydrolysis of polymers, which proceed much more intensely in warming conditions, are a likely cause for the increased harm.
The amassed scientific evidence indicates that climate change contributes not only to a rise in ecotoxicity but also to a more active dispersal of the pollutant in the environment. This is linked to an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events. For instance, following severe floods, the concentration of microplastics in river estuaries can grow fortyfold. A similar surge in harmful particles is observed in coastal bottom sediments after typhoons pass through.
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