IMPACT OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS ON MARINE LIFE WITH CORRELATION WITH HUMAN HEALTH, A REVIEW - By Shahnaz Akhtera

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ABOUT THEAUTHOR

Meet Shahnaz Akhtera, a passionate student currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in forensic science at Vivekananda Global University in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Her profound interest in this field drives her to apply her knowledge practically, aiming to use her skills to assist and support others. Join her as she explores the practical applications of forensic science to make a difference in people's lives.

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ABSTRACT:

The escalating use of petroleum products and their inadvertent release into marine environments pose significant threats not only to marine biodiversity but also have consequential impacts on human health. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the effects of petroleum pollutants on marine life, delineating the mechanisms through which these substances inflict harm. It delves into the bioaccumulation of hydrocarbons in the food chain and its toxicological implications for marine species, including disruptions in reproductive, endocrine, and immune systems. Furthermore, the study explores the correlation between the degradation of marine ecosystems and the resultant adverse effects on human health. It highlights how consumption of contaminated seafood leads to the bioaccumulation of toxic compounds in humans, potentially causing diseases and long-term health issues. The paper also discusses the socio-economic ramifications, including impacts on livelihoods dependent on marine resources and the broader implications for public health systems. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this research underscores the urgent need for robust regulatory frameworks, enhanced pollution control measures, and global cooperation to mitigate the detrimental effects of petroleum products on marine life and safeguard human health.

INTRODUCTION:

The oceans, covering over 70% of the Earth's surface, are vital to the planet's ecological balance, supporting a diverse array of life forms and ecosystems. However, the increasing dependence on petroleum products for energy and industrial applications has led to the frequent occurrence of oil spills and the release of various petroleum-based pollutants into marine environments. These incidents pose a significant threat to marine biodiversity and have far-reaching implications for human health. The introduction of petroleum hydrocarbons into marine ecosystems primarily results from operational discharges, shipping accidents, and runoff, leading to detrimental effects on marine organisms and the overall health of the ocean. This paper aims to elucidate the multifaceted impact of petroleum products on marine life and establish a clear correlation between the degradation of marine ecosystems and adverse effects on human health. By examining the pathways through which petroleum pollutants enter marine ecosystems and their toxicological impact on marine species, we can better understand the implications for the food chain and, consequently, for human consumption. The bioaccumulation and biomagnification of petroleum hydrocarbons in marine organisms highlight a direct link to human health risks, particularly through the consumption of contaminated seafood. The importance of healthy marine ecosystems extends beyond their intrinsic ecological value, playing a critical role in human economies, livelihoods, and cultural heritage. Therefore, understanding the impact of petroleum pollution on marine life and its correlation with human health is not only a matter of environmental concern but also of public health and socioeconomic stability. Through this investigation, we aim to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on environmental pollutants, advocating for more stringent environmental regulations, pollution control, and sustainable practices to protect our oceans and, by extension, human health.

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