<human>:  What are the effects of plastic pollution on the environment?
<bot>: The effects of plastic pollution on the environment are far-reaching and devastating. Plastic waste litters oceans, rivers, and coastal areas, killing marine life, disrupting ecosystem balance, and posing a risk to human health. Plastic pollution also causes land contamination, leading to soil and air pollution, which in turn can have detrimental effects on nearby plants and animals. Additionally, the production of plastic takes a heavy toll on natural resources, including water and energy, contributing to global climate change and environmental degradation.