It is estimated that approximately 80% of ocean pollution is a result of land based activity. Pollution stems from many small sources, including septic tank leaks, vehicles, and farms. Water runoff caries pollution from these sources into the ocean. Debris, such as soda cans and plastic bags, affect marine life. Marine life can mistake these items for food, and attempt to eat them. Debris can maim and kill wildlife. The majority of marine debris comes from stormwater runoff, sewers, and trash abandoned on beaches. Heavy metals are washed into the ocean and ingested by seafood. In some cases, this makes seafood unsafe to eat. The great Pacific garbage patch is a patch of garbage located in the Pacific ocean. It is a zone of concentrated garbage and pollution contaminating the water. This area is estimated to be around three times larger than France.
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