Target 14.5 of SDG 14 specifically focuses on reducing marine pollution, including plastic pollution.

UNEP estimates that around 80% of all marine litter is plastic, highlighting the significant contribution of plastic pollution to ocean pollution.

While natural weathering of plastic products can contribute to microplastic pollution, it is not a major source of plastic pollution in the oceans compared to land-based sources, shipping and fishing activities, and offshore oil and gas activities.

Plastic degradation in the environment can occur through various processes, including photodegradation (breakdown by sunlight), biodegradation (breakdown by microorganisms), and fragmentation (mechanical breakdown).

All of the options listed are potential impacts of plastic pollution on marine life, highlighting the harmful effects of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems.

SDG 12 specifically aims to reduce waste generation and promote sustainable consumption patterns, which includes addressing the issue of plastic pollution.

Target 12.5 of SDG 12 specifically focuses on reducing waste generation and promoting sustainable consumption patterns, while Target 14.5 of SDG 14 focuses on increasing the number of marine protected areas.

Waste reduction encompasses various strategies to reduce the amount of waste generated, including recycling, composting, and other waste minimization practices.

Reducing plastic pollution generally has positive benefits, such as improved water quality, reduced harm to marine life, and improved human health. It does not typically lead to increased economic costs.

Reuse, upcycling, and downcycling are all forms of reusing a product or material for the same or a different purpose, thereby reducing waste generation.

While increasing the number of marine protected areas is important for protecting marine ecosystems, it is not directly related to addressing plastic pollution. The other options focus on reducing plastic production and use, improving waste management, and promoting sustainable alternatives.

Recycling, composting, and upcycling are all processes that convert waste materials into usable materials and objects, thereby reducing waste generation.

Plastic pollution can have negative impacts on human health, including ingestion of microplastics, exposure to toxic chemicals, and increased risk of cancer. Improved air quality is not a consequence of plastic pollution.

Composting is the process of breaking down organic matter, such as food scraps and yard waste, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment.

Target 11.6 of SDG 11 specifically focuses on reducing the environmental impact of cities, while Target 14.5 of SDG 14 focuses on increasing the number of marine protected areas.