---
title: "Photodegradation of ocean plastics releases hundreds of chemicals: study"
description: "Photodegradation of ocean plastics releases hundreds of chemicals: study"
---

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# Photodegradation of ocean plastics releases hundreds of chemicals: study

Plastic pollution is a significant environmental issue, with millions of tons entering the ocean annually. Research by Northeastern University reveals that when plastics likesuch as polyethylene, polypropylene, and expanded polystyrene break down in sunlight, hundreds of chemicals are produced. This process, known as photodegradation, can impact the ocean's carbon cycle, marine chemistry, and potentially human health. The study suggests that stopping new plastic input into the ocean could lead to the removal of smaller microplastics by sunlight within a few decades. However, the study also emphasises the need to understand the impact of the chemicals produced during photodegradation on marine ecosystems. ([Phys.org)](https://phys.org/news/2023-12-potentially-chemical-byproducts-left-sunlight.html)

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