The main cause of plastic pollution in the environment is the excessive and improper use of single-use plastics. These include items such as plastic bags, straws, and beverage bottles, which are used for a short period of time before being discarded. The effects of plastic pollution on the environment are widespread and can be devastating. Marine wildlife, such as sea turtles and birds, can mistake plastic debris for food and ingest it, leading to injury or death. Plastic debris in the ocean can also harm and suffocate coral reefs. Plastic can also break down into microplastics, which can be ingested by marine animals and end up in the food chain, potentially posing a threat to human health. Additionally, plastic can take hundreds of years to decompose, and as it breaks down, it releases toxic chemicals into the environment.