Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic Ocean, the second largest of the world’s five oceans, is home to the world’s first transoceanic route and is the most heavily traveled ocean. With 90% of global trade currently utilizing sea routes, it accounts for more than two-thirds of the world’s shipping volume. The World Bank estimates that the Atlantic Ocean contributes $1.5 trillion annually to the global economy. Aside from maritime transportation, littering, oil spills, ocean dumping, and unsustainable fishing practices are contributing factors that amount to over 200 million tons of pollution in the Atlantic Ocean. These microplastics enter the marine food chain and become a threat to oceanic life. In addition to harming oceanic life, the movement of water north and south throughout the Atlantic Ocean is susceptible to change due to climate change. The North Atlantic is the warmest and saltiest whilst the South Atlantic is coldest and densest. These climatic changes negatively impact all life around the world, a problem influencing further than just oceanic life.
