Microplastics: A Global Problem

How are we harmed? 

It is important to realize that microplastics, in and of themselves, can present health risks. In some circumstances, they are small enough to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Taylor cites lab studies, "where very small plastic particles have been able to permeate the gut lining of a fish or another marine organism. But it depends on the size of the particle and there are other studies which show they often remain in the gastrointestinal tract and are just eliminated." 

There's also concern about the way that microplastics can act as tiny toxic sponges, collecting heavy metals or harboring pathogens. In either instance, they can act as a transport mechanism. "It's not the plastic that's the issue, it's what the plastic may be transporting on its surface," says Taylor. 

While the direct health effects of microplastics are still being studied, "there's no doubt that they are getting more and more common," says Hudson. His chief concern is the speed at which we're accumulating the stuff and how that might outstrip nature's ability to adapt. "The danger is not with the plastic per se, but what else those plastics may contain." Even with plastic deemed "food-grade," he explains, "the issue is that it's not pure. There will be all sorts of additives in there. And it's these additives that can be very harmful to human health." 

Can microplastics be filtered out? 

As with most things in life, the devil's in the detail when it comes to household water filtration. It depends on the type of filter. Carbon filters, for example, commonly used in water filter jugs, won't remove microplastics. However, reverse osmosis or nanofiltration systems can. That said, "the filters themselves are often enclosed in some sort of plastic container," says Taylor, "so there's potential for contamination." 

Hudson echoes this, adding that "a lot of the filtering systems are likely to be made of plastic as well". This issue is one reason he believes that prevention is a better strategy than trying to remove microplastics after they've entered the environment. Another is that filtration is out of reach financially for many people, including some in the world's worst microplastic hot spots. 

Time to act 

We all need to accept the fact that plastic is everywhere and it's not going away, at least not in our lifetimes. In some cases, it's essential. "But," says Hudson, "we have to look seriously at reducing the amount of single-use plastic." We know plastic is a big problem, but "I don't think people are necessarily aware that microplastic fragments are coming out of their clothes, from the tires on their cars, in their food and water." 

Change has to happen across all levels. "It's the manufacturers who've got to change the materials that they use. It's the government through legislation. And it's the consumers," says Hudson. He's frustrated by the widespread use of plastic as the default, when it's often not necessary. "If I go to my local supermarket and buy some bananas, why on earth are those wrapped in plastic?" 

What can we do as individuals? 

While it's easy to feel overwhelmed by this global issue, there are changes we can implement. Here are some suggestions: 

Clothing choices: Opt for clothing made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, and linen. Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are notorious for shedding microfibers. Avoid fleece entirely – it's a major culprit. When you wash your clothes, do so less often, on a colder cycle, and with a full load to reduce friction. Air-dry laundry to avoid the agitation of a tumble dryer. 

Homewares: Replace plastic containers, bottles, cling wrap, and other food storage with glass or stainless steel alternatives. Avoid heating food in plastic or using plastic cooking utensils. For non-stick frying pans, choose ceramic-coated options. 

Cleaning products and cosmetics: Many cleaning solutions and personal care products contain microplastics, sometimes listed as microbeads or polyethylene. Check ingredients lists carefully, and opt for eco-friendly brands that avoid these harmful additives. 

Packaging: Buy food loose or in paper or cardboard packaging whenever possible. Choose fruit and vegetables without plastic wrapping at the supermarket, and bring your own bags. Support businesses that make conscious efforts to reduce plastic use. 

Reusables: Use reusable water bottles, travel mugs, and food containers instead of disposable plastic options. If you have children, consider reusable alternatives to plastic baby bottles, plates, and cutlery. 

Support change: Contact your local elected officials and advocate for legislation that reduces plastic production and encourages the development of sustainable alternatives. Support organizations working to clean up plastic pollution and promote environmental awareness. 

What about recycling? 

Many people think recycling is the answer to the plastic problem, but in reality, only a small percentage of plastic gets recycled, and the process itself is flawed. "You can only recycle plastic a limited number of times before it degrades to such a low quality that it can't be used anymore," says Hudson. Additionally, most recycling facilities aren't equipped to handle small fragments of plastic, so many microplastics end up in waterways or landfills. 

The focus needs to be on reducing plastic consumption, not just recycling it. While recycling should be encouraged, it is crucial to understand that it's not the ultimate solution. 

A call for further research 

Scientists agree that we need more research to fully understand the health impacts of microplastics. "We need to find out what types of plastic are problematic, what kinds of chemicals are in those plastics, and what are the safe levels, if any," says Hudson. Additionally, we must develop better methods to detect and measure microplastics in the environment, food, and our bodies. 

While researchers continue their work, it's up to all of us to take action. Small changes can make a big difference over time. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to protect our planet and our health from the growing threat of microplastic pollution. 

Microplastics in the wider world 

Our focus has been on how to reduce personal exposure, but the issue is significantly wider than individual homes. Microplastics are found in some surprising places, and scientists are continually discovering new sources of contamination. 

On land and sea: "Microplastics are going out into the sewage system," says Taylor. "The heavier sludge goes into landfill, the lighter sludge is often used as a soil improver." So plastic fragments end up in the food we eat, or in waterways when runoff washes treated soil into oceans and rivers. 

From the air: Microplastics aren't just waterborne – they are carried by wind, sometimes great distances. "They've been found up in the Arctic and on mountaintops," says Wright. "A recent paper found it had literally rained plastic in New Zealand." 

In unexpected places: Microplastics have been found in everything from teabags to table salt to Arctic sea ice. They're shed from synthetic turf football pitches, and a recent study found high levels of microplastics in the wet sand at the water's edge of beaches. 

The impact on marine life 

The marine environment is bearing the brunt of plastic pollution. "Sea creatures mistake these particles for food, so they eat them and then that can get into their bodies," explains Hudson. "Or it can block their guts and stop them from being able to feed properly." Microplastic ingestion has been linked to impaired growth, reduced fertility, and behavioral changes in various marine species. 

Larger pieces of plastic, like those found in discarded fishing gear, can present entanglement risks. Marine birds are also vulnerable to plastic accumulation. "Seabirds will feed this plastic to their chicks because they mistake it for food," says Hudson, leading to digestive blockages and a false sense of fullness, which can be fatal. 

A global problem 

No single country is to blame for this crisis – it's a worldwide problem, requiring a global solution. "The production of plastic is going to treble by 2050," says Hudson. A large percentage of the world's plastic is made in Asia and much of the mismanaged waste comes from there, too. However, this is partly because affluent countries export their waste to Asia for processing. 

Ocean currents further complicate things. "A plastic bottle you throw away on a beach in the UK could wash up on a beach in France or a beach in Norway," says Hudson. This highlights a key point – plastic pollution doesn't respect borders. We need international cooperation to make a meaningful impact. 

What can global bodies do? 

Some steps are being taken. The European Union has banned single-use plastic items like disposable plates, cutlery, and straws. There's also a move in the UN towards an internationally binding plastic pollution treaty. The aim is to address the full lifecycle of plastic – from production to use to disposal. 

"That will set some international standards," says Hudson, "and hopefully will provide some pressure on the companies responsible to switch to more readily recyclable materials, or ones that biodegrade fairly easily in the environment, or stop them using plastics completely for unnecessary items." 

Are bioplastics the answer? 

Bioplastics, derived from renewable sources like cornstarch or sugarcane, are often touted as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic. However, the reality is more complex. 

"There can be some advantages to bioplastics," says Taylor, "but bioplastic doesn't mean biodegradable." Some types break down only under specific conditions, such as industrial composting facilities not usually available to consumers. Even when they do biodegrade, they could still release harmful microplastics in the process. 

"A lot of the bioplastics aren't readily recyclable either," says Hudson, "so they tend to be thrown away with general waste and just end up in landfill." The production of bioplastics can also contribute to deforestation and compete with land needed for food crops. 

While bioplastics may have a role to play, they aren't a magic solution. Ultimately, experts agree that the focus needs to be on reducing our overall consumption of both traditional and bio-based plastics. 

The power of the people 

Consumer pressure is a powerful force that can drive change. As we become more informed about the dangers of microplastics, we can make better choices. 

Here are some things you can do: 

Educate yourself and others: Learn as much as you can about microplastics and spread the word to your friends, family, and community. 

Get involved: Sign petitions, write to your elected representatives, and participate in environmental campaigns. 

Vote with your wallet: Support businesses that are committed to sustainability and avoid products that contribute to microplastic pollution. 

Lead by example: Make it a point to minimize your plastic footprint. Inspire others by demonstrating that it's possible to live with less plastic. 

"Sometimes people underestimate their own ability to change things," says Taylor. "The reality is that governments do respond to pressure, whether that's public pressure or even more importantly, pressure from companies." 

A final thought 

While the microplastic problem may seem daunting, it's important to remember that our choices matter. "When you go out for a walk in the countryside and you see a piece of plastic, you have a choice," says Hudson. "You can walk past it and think, well, it's too much hassle, or you can pick it up and put it in the bin." 

Individual actions alone won't solve this global crisis, but they can start a wave of change. By working together, we can create a world where the presence of microplastics in our environment, and in our bodies, is a worrying chapter in our history, and not our future. 

Looking to the future 

The fight against microplastic pollution is ongoing, but progress is being made. Here are some hopeful developments: 

Scientific advancements: Researchers are continuously working to develop better methods for detecting, measuring, and removing microplastics from the environment. This knowledge will be crucial in understanding the scale of the problem and developing effective solutions. 

Innovative solutions: New technologies are on the horizon. Some possibilities include biodegradable alternatives to plastic, microbes that can break down plastic, and advanced filtration systems that can capture even the smallest microplastic particles. 

Corporate action: More companies are taking the initiative to reduce their plastic footprint. Some are switching to reusable packaging, implementing recycling programs, or investing in research for sustainable alternatives. 

Policy shifts: Governments are starting to take action with legislation banning single-use plastics, incentivizing eco-friendly practices, and investing in research and infrastructure for waste management. 

Public pressure: As awareness of the microplastics issue grows, the public is demanding change. This grassroots pressure is influencing corporations and policymakers to take action. 

Staying informed and engaged 

The fight against microplastics won't be won overnight, but it's a battle worth fighting. Here are some ways to stay informed and involved: 

Follow reputable sources: Research from scientific journals, environmental organizations, and trusted news sources helps you separate fact from fiction. 

Support research: Donate to organizations conducting research on microplastics and their impact on human health and the environment. 

Be a voice for change: Advocate for policies that promote sustainability and reduce plastic pollution through petitions, contacting your elected officials, and participating in environmental campaigns. 

Stay optimistic: It's easy to get discouraged, but remember that progress is being made. Every action, however small, helps build a more sustainable future. 

Conclusion 

Microplastics are an insidious threat, and while we don't yet know the full extent of their impact on our health, it's prudent to take steps to reduce exposure. Individual action can minimize personal risk, and it can also help drive change at a wider level. Remember, we don't inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children. By working together, we can make choices that reduce our reliance on plastic and help protect the planet for generations to come.