By: Sooa Hong
In today’s world, plastic has become an ubiquitous material that have been proven vital for industries. However, its characteristics of durability and cheapness that have once been seen as a benefit, has turned into one of the most pressing environmental concerns. These less than five millimeters bits of plastic emerges as a pressing issue that must be evaluated more thoroughly.
Microplastics are small plastic particles the size of a pencil eraser. These bits are either intentionally manufactured at a microscopic size or is the result of degradation from larger plastic items. The sources of microplastics are numerous and its production is not easily restricted.
Microplastics have permeated every corner of the Earth, even to remote areas that are far from industrial sites. According to new studies from Portland State researchers, microplastics are now found in everything— from our clothing to our food, there is a dire need to renovate and develop our technology to reduce the widespread microfiber pollution entering the environment today.
Many marine creatures are often led to ingest microplastics, mistaking them for food. Microplastics may have toxic chemicals such as pesticide or heavy metals. More often than not, these ingestions cause physical harm such as blockages or malnutrition. In the worst scenario, ingestion of microplastics end in death. Not only does this negatively impact the marine animals, but it eventually moves up the food chain to humans.
Microplastics are also reaching to terrestrial environments, where they are found affecting soil health and potentially entering the bodies of humans through crops. Microplastics are constantly found in tap water, bottled water, and even the air we breath.
The potential for microplastics to harm human health is a growing concern for researchers. Unknowing consumption of these bits of plastic can lead to ingestion, inflammation, toxicity, or even hormonal disruptions that could significantly impact one’s health. Some microplastics may contain biphenol A (BPA) or phthalates which are endocrine disruptors that can lead to reproductive issues or developmental abnormalities.
However, research on the full impact or the exten of the risks posed by microplastics are still largely unknown. The concerns for potential long-term health effects are widespread, but there is a need to research more upon this area. Researchers must focus more on microplastic impact on the human body, and governments or organizations must push for stricter regulations on plastic use. For example, the European Union has banned microbeads in cosmetics, taking measures to reduce plastic waste.
More innovative technologies should be developed to capture microplastics before entering the environment. Some researchers are experimenting with filtration systems for wastewater treatments in plants and are designing products that can break down more easily in nature.
Microplastics are quiet but insidious threats to our environment and human health, and their pervasive nature calls for a charged global effort to address the pollution. We must create sustainable practices to preserve the health of our planet for future generations.
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