How does plastic pollution interfere with natural processes in marine environments?

Plastic pollution significantly interferes with natural processes in marine environments by impacting sedimentology and biogeochemistry. Plastics can transform the physical characteristics of sediments, altering their structure and texture, which affects how sediments interact with water and other biological materials. This alteration can influence the habitat for various marine organisms that rely on certain sediment properties for survival and reproduction.

Additionally, plastics can leach chemicals and contaminants into the surrounding sediments, thus modifying the biochemical processes that occur within these environments. Such changes can disrupt nutrient cycles and affect the overall health of the marine ecosystem. Through these mechanisms, plastic pollution leads to a complex interplay between human-made materials and natural processes, demonstrating profound effects on marine ecosystems.