Which of the following is mentioned as a source of ocean plastic?
Plastic does not disappear when it is thrown away. Over many years, sunlight and waves break large pieces into tiny fragments called microplastics, some smaller than a grain of rice. These fragments are eaten by plankton and small fish, and so they enter the food chain. Scientists are still studying how this affects the health of larger animals and of the people who eat seafood. What is clear, however, is that a large share of ocean plastic comes from discarded fishing gear and from rubbish carried out to sea by rivers. Several coastal towns have responded by placing special nets across stormwater drains to catch litter before it reaches the sea, and some fishing companies now collect old nets for recycling. Environmental groups argue that such measures help, but they add that reducing the amount of single-use plastic made in the first place would be more effective than cleaning up afterwards.
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Discarded fishing gear
- Step 1: Discarded fishing gear and rubbish carried by rivers are named as sources.
Answer
Discarded fishing gear.
Why not the others: Waste thrown from aeroplanes: this is not mentioned. Ash from volcanic eruptions: this is not mentioned. Leaks from offshore oil rigs only: oil rigs are not mentioned.
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