What are Microplastics?
Microplastics are small plastic fragments measuring less than five millimeters in size, originating from the degradation of larger plastic items or intentional production for specific applications like personal care products. They pervade various environmental compartments, including oceans, rivers, soil, and air, posing significant threats to ecosystems and wildlife. Their ingestion by marine organisms can lead to bioaccumulation in the food chain, potentially endangering human health. Addressing this concern requires concerted efforts to curb plastic pollution at its source, develop effective removal technologies, and raise public awareness about the pervasive impacts of microplastics on the environment.
What are the Possible Health Effects?
The health effects of microplastics on humans are an area of active research, but the full extent of their impact is not yet fully understood. While studies have shown that microplastics can accumulate in various organs and tissues of marine organisms, leading to adverse effects on their health, the direct consequences for human health remain unclear. There is concern that ingesting microplastics through contaminated food and water sources could potentially lead to inflammation, oxidative stress, and the release of harmful chemicals associated with plastics, which may pose risks to human health. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential health effects of microplastics exposure and to assess any associated risks accurately.
It has recently been discovered that microplastics are making their way into our blood, and have now possibly been linked to an increased chance of stroke and heart attacks. Read the article discussing this new reasearch HERE
Featured Video
“How microplastics affect your health”
by UN Environment Programme
Disclaimer: Greenzy did not produce this video. To see more of SUN Environment Programme, see their channel on YouTube.
How do Microplastics enter the body?
Microplastics can be found in food and beverages, including seafood, salt, and bottled water. They can also leach from plastic food containers, utensils, and packaging during food preparation and consumption.
Airborne microplastics can be released from sources such as synthetic textiles, vehicle tires, and industrial activities, leading to potential inhalation by humans.
Exposure can occur through contact with personal care products containing microplastics or direct contact with contaminated surfaces, such as plastic debris in marine environments or microplastics embedded in soil and dust particles.