The Problems with Penguins and Plastic

Each year, millions of seabirds suffer and die due to plastic pollution, an escalating environmental crisis that affects every corner of our oceans. The haunting image of a young penguin that had been entangled in this orange plastic fencing reminds us that this global issue is not just a statistic; it’s a daily tragedy for marine wildlife.

The Deadly Toll of Plastic Pollution on Seabirds

The Scale of the Crisis

Plastic pollution has infiltrated marine ecosystems at an alarming rate. Researchers estimate that over 8 million metric tons of plastic enter the oceans annually (Jambeck et al., 2015). Of this, a significant portion eventually ends up harming marine animals, including seabirds. According to a study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (Wilcox et al., 2015), 90% of seabirds have ingested plastic at some point in their lives, a figure projected to reach 99% by 2050 if current trends continue.

Seabirds such as albatrosses, petrels, gannets, and penguins are particularly vulnerable because they mistake floating plastic debris for food. This often leads to starvation, as their stomachs become full of indigestible materials, or to fatal injuries caused by sharp fragments.

How Plastic Affects Seabirds

1. Entanglement: Like the penguin rescued by SAPREC in the image, seabirds frequently become trapped in fishing nets, plastic bags, or construction materials, leaving them unable to swim, fly, or feed.
2. Ingestion: Seabirds often mistake microplastics and larger plastic pieces for prey such as fish or squid. This leads to blockages in their digestive systems and reduced nutrient absorption. Lavers et al. (2019) found that some birds feed plastic to their chicks, further compromising their survival.
3. Toxic Exposure: Plastics contain harmful chemicals like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) ansticd phthalates. When ingested, these toxins accumulate in the birds' tissues, affecting reproduction and immune responses (Rochman et al., 2013).
4. Plasticosis: In 2023, a new disease termed "plasticosis" was identified in seabirds. This disease is caused by the ingestion of plastic, leading to scarring of the digestive tract, which affects digestion, growth, and survival.

The Orange Fencing Incident

The penguin found entangled in orange plastic fencing is a stark example of how human activity disrupts marine life. This material, commonly used at construction sites, often ends up in the ocean through improper disposal. Unable to swim and feed, the penguin grew weak, relying on the dedicated care of volunteers at SAPREC for a chance at survival.

Broader Implications for Ecosystems

Seabirds are crucial indicators of ocean health. As apex predators in marine food webs, their decline signals broader ecosystem imbalances. The ingestion of plastics not only affects their survival but also impacts the species that rely on them for food or ecological services.

For example, seabirds help regulate fish populations and transport nutrients between marine and terrestrial environments through their guano. When seabird populations decline, these vital ecosystem services are disrupted.

Turning the Tide Against Plastic Pollution

Tackling plastic pollution requires a multi-faceted approach:

1. Reduce Plastic Use: As individuals, we can refuse single-use plastics like bags, straws, and cutlery. Governments and industries should support bans on unnecessary plastics.
2. Improve Waste Management: Research shows that countries with poor waste management systems contribute the most to marine plastic pollution (Jambeck et al., 2015). Investing in better infrastructure can significantly reduce ocean-bound plastics.
3. Support Cleanup Efforts: Organisations like SAPREC play a vital role in rehabilitating wildlife affected by plastic pollution. Supporting such initiatives through donations or volunteering can make a tangible difference.
4. Advocate for Policy Changes: Writing to government officials, like South Africa's Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, can help drive stricter regulations on plastic production and waste disposal.

How You Can Help

Small changes in daily habits can collectively have a significant impact:

• Use reusable bags and bottles - Invest in sturdy cloth bags and durable metal or glass bottles to reduce single-use plastic consumption.
• Avoid products with excessive plastic packaging - Choose items with minimal or compostable packaging, or buy in bulk to reduce waste.
• Recycle diligently - Sort and clean recyclables to ensure they can be processed effectively. Learn about your local recycling guidelines for proper disposal.
• Spread awareness about the impact of plastic pollution on marine life - Share information, volunteer, or participate in campaigns to inspire others to take action.
• Opt for thrift shopping and secondhand items - Thrifting reduces demand for new items that often come with plastic packaging, and it helps repurpose existing goods.
• Repair and mend instead of replacing - Extend the life of clothing, bags, and other items by mending them instead of discarding and buying new ones.
• Participate in beach cleanups - Join or organise local cleanup events to remove debris from beaches and waterways before it harms marine life.
• Compost organic waste - By composting, you can minimise plastic trash bags used for disposing of food waste and reduce landfill contributions.
• Choose plastic-free personal care products - Switch to bar soap, solid shampoos, and refillable deodorants to eliminate unnecessary plastic packaging.
• Say no to single-use plastics - Refuse plastic straws, utensils, and cups when dining out, and bring your own alternatives.
• Support sustainable businesses - Buy from companies committed to reducing plastic waste and implementing sustainable practices.
• Advocate for policy changes - Write to local representatives, urging them to enact laws that reduce plastic production and promote better waste management.
• Use reusable produce bags - Swap plastic produce bags for mesh or cloth alternatives when shopping for fruits and vegetables.
• DIY cleaning products and toiletries - Reduce plastic use by making your own household cleaners and personal care items using natural ingredients.
• Making a pledge to reduce, reuse, and recycle can create ripples of change. Visit Plastic Pollution Coalition to take your first step toward a plastic-free future.

The plight of seabirds like the SAPREC penguin serves as a reminder of the urgent need for action. By reducing plastic use, supporting rehabilitation efforts, and advocating for systemic change, we can protect our oceans and the remarkable creatures that call them home.

References:

1. Jambeck, J. R., Geyer, R., Wilcox, C., et al. (2015). Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean. Science, 347(6223), 768-771. Link: https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1260352
2. Wilcox, C., Sebille, E. V., & Hardesty, B. D. (2015). Threat of plastic pollution to seabirds is global, pervasive, and increasing. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 112(38), 11899-11904. Link: https://www.pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1502108112
3. Lavers, J. L., Bond, A. L., & Hutton, I. (2019). Plastic ingestion by flesh-footed shearwaters (Ardenna carneipes): Implications for chick body condition and survival. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 54(8), 1088-1095. Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0025326X19303514
4. Rochman, C. M., Browne, M. A., Underwood, A. J., et al. (2013). The ecological impacts of marine debris: Unraveling the demonstrated evidence from what is perceived. Ecology, 97(2), 302-312. Link: https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1890/14-2070.1
5. Clark, B.L., Carneiro, A.P.B., Pearmain, E.J. et al. (2023). Global assessment of marine plastic exposure risk for oceanic birds. Nat Commun 14, 3665. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-38900-z