The Mariana Trench, Earth’s deepest point, was once thought untouched by humans. But the discovery of a plastic bag there “serves as a poignant warning to humanity” about the reach of pollution. This find highlights the global crisis of plastic waste, even in remote ocean depths.

Despite appearing lifeless, the trench is home to coral, jellyfish, and octopus. Sadly, “17 percent of the images of plastic…depicted interactions with marine life,” including ingestion and entanglement—direct threats to deep-sea creatures.

Plastic is the most common ocean debris. A study showed that “89 percent of the plastic discovered…was of the single-use variety.” Most ocean plastic (80%) comes from land, especially ten major rivers, while 20% comes from ships. Discarded fishing gear also adds to massive garbage patches.

As plastics break down, they release microplastics and chemical pollutants. These tiny particles “accumulate in the water column before eventually settling” in deep-sea areas, possibly harming fragile ecosystems.

The plastic bag in the Mariana Trench is more than trash—it’s a global wake-up call. Without urgent action to reduce plastic use, improve recycling, and promote sustainability, the damage to our oceans may be irreversible.