Microplastics in the ocean are well-documented risks that pose a direct threat to marine life such as turtles and fish. But a recent joint study revealed another, more insidious risk. These tiny particles not only threaten marine organisms, but also threaten the ocean's ability to mitigate climate change.

The impact of microplastics on the ocean

The ocean has long been a key part of the Earth's carbon cycle and acts as an important carbon sink.

This process involves the formation of what is often referred to as "marine snow", a phenomenon in which dead phytoplankton, tiny marine plants, clump together and sink into the ocean depths, effectively sequestering carbon from the atmosphere.

However, the introduction of microplastics into this environment is changing this age-old process. (Rodielon Putol, more at earth.com)