A thesis statement about what your overall research will show
3 main points written as topic sentences that support your thesis
2 Facts/details/examples for each main point from a reliable source
A bibliography (a list of MLA citations for the sources that you used in your research)
Thesis Statement: Through my research, I will demonstrate the detrimental effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and propose solutions to mitigate this environmental crisis.
1. Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to marine wildlife.
- According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), over 800 species of marine animals are affected by plastic pollution through entanglement, ingestion, or habitat destruction.
- A study published in the journal Science estimated that over 8 million tons of plastic waste enter the oceans each year, contributing to the decline of marine populations.
2. Plastic pollution has a negative impact on marine habitats and ecosystems.
- The World Economic Forum reports that plastic pollution severely damages coral reefs, which are crucial ecosystems for marine biodiversity and fisheries.
- Research from the University of California, Santa Barbara reveals that microplastics in the ocean disrupt nutrient cycles and can lead to detrimental effects on marine food webs.
3. Solutions to reduce plastic pollution in marine environments are essential for preserving the health of our oceans.
- The Ocean Conservancy advocates for policy changes and increased public awareness campaigns to reduce single-use plastics and improve waste management practices.
- The Ellen MacArthur Foundation promotes the concept of a circular economy, where plastic materials are reused and recycled to minimize waste production and pollution.
Bibliography:
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. "Marine Debris Program." https://marinedebris.noaa.gov/.
- Jambeck, Jenna R., et al. "Plastic waste inputs from land into the ocean." Science, vol. 347, no. 6223, 2015, pp. 768-771.
- World Economic Forum. "The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the Future of Plastics." http://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_The_New_Plastics_Economy.pdf.
- University of California, Santa Barbara. "Microplastics in the Ocean." https://labs.mcdb.ucsb.edu/pelagicplastic/education/microplastics.