Plastic pollution refers to the accumulation and presence of plastics in the environment, particularly in natural habitats such as oceans, rivers, lakes, and landfills. This type of pollution occurs when plastic waste is not properly disposed or recycled, leading to its release into the ecosystem where it can cause harm to wildlife, humans, and the environment. Plastics do not decompose easily, instead they break down into smaller particles known as microplastics which are then ingested by marine life and enter the food chain, posing a threat to human health as well. The term "plastic pollution" is often used interchangeably with terms such as plastic waste or ocean plastic, but it specifically refers to the problem of plastics in the environment causing harm to ecosystems and living organisms.