Final answer:
The exact number of containers lost at sea annually is not specified in the reference materials, but they do emphasize the severe impact of ocean pollution and the role of container ships in contributing to this problem and to marine biofouling.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the issue of marine pollution, particularly the trash that is discharged into the ocean by container ships and the subsequent washing up of this debris on coastlines like those of Suffolk, England. The provided reference materials do not specify exactly how many containers fall off ships each year, but the problem of ocean pollution by garbage, including the loss of cargo from ships, is a recognized environmental concern. Ocean garbage impacts marine life through entanglement and ingestion. Container ships have been identified as significant vectors in the transfer of marine biofouling species, contributing to the issue of invasive species as well. Not only does trash from these ships affect the ecosystem, but even their ballast water (BW) discharges—though not explicitly trash—can lead to biological invasions and pollution.