Which statement about garbage disposal at sea is accurate?

• A. It keeps waterways clean if the debris sinks.
• B. It is permitted if the garbage is small.
• C. It pollutes waterways, harms wildlife, and is illegal in many areas.
• D. It helps keep beaches clean by washing ashore.

Answer: (C)

Disposing garbage at sea harms the marine environment and is regulated for good reason. Plastic and other debris can persist for years, breaking down into microplastics that are eaten by fish, seabirds, and other wildlife, or that cause entanglement and injury. Debris can also damage habitats on the ocean floor and transport invasive species to new areas. Because of these risks, many jurisdictions prohibit dumping garbage at sea and require disposal on land or through proper waste handling systems. The statement reflects this reality by noting that dumping garbage at sea pollutes waterways, harms wildlife, and is illegal in many areas. Saying that small trash is allowed, that debris sinking is fine, or that it washing ashore helps beaches isn’t accurate, since all dumping contributes to pollution and laws increasingly restrict or prohibit it.