What is microplastic? How it harms us and how to avoid it

What are microplastics

Plastic is used all over the world. Unfortunately, plastics can cause serious environmental pollution due to their limited biodegradability.

Microplastics are plastic fragments, and the smallest plastics are called nanoplastics (1 nm [nm] to 1 μm [μm]) and microplastics (1 μm-5 mm).

They come from a variety of sources, including larger plastic items that break down into smaller pieces, microbeads used in personal care products, fibers shed from synthetic clothing and particles released during the degradation of plastic waste.

These particles can persist in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years and are found almost everywhere, from the remote depths of the ocean to the air we breathe and the food we eat.

Research estimates that the average adult consumes about 2,000 microplastics through salt every year [1].

Plastic classification

Based on size classification , they are usually divided into:

• Large plastic (2.5-100 cm)
• Mesoscopic plastic (0.1 - 2.5 cm)
• Microplastics (1000 μm–1μm)
• Nanoplastic (<1 μm)

Many plastic polymers can cause M-NPL contamination, including: [2]

• Polystyrene (PS)
• polylactic acid
• Polyurethane (PU)
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Polyoxymethylene (POM)
• Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
• Polyamide (PA)
• Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Styrene acrylate
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Styrene acrylate

Impact on people and the environment

Microplastics are a global environmental pollutant that can contaminate ecosystems such as soil, water, and sediments. This pollution leads to habitat degradation, ecosystem damage and biodiversity loss.

Marine life such as fish and seabirds can mistakenly ingest microplastics, causing physical harm, internal injuries and digestive tract obstructions.

These nano and microplastics can enter the human body through the respiratory system through inhalation, enter the digestive tract through the consumption of contaminated food and water, or penetrate the skin through contact with cosmetics and clothing.

The concentration of microplastics in the terrestrial environment is increasing. Microplastics cause damage to soil structure; damage soil microbiota, causing soil nutrient depletion, and plant uptake of nutrients will reduce plant growth.

Microplastics can get into fruits, vegetables, seeds, roots, stems and leaves. As a result, microplastics enter the food chain.

There are different entry points for microplastics into the food chain. These sources can include contaminated food, beverages, spices, plastic toys, packaging and cooking.

Bioaccumulation of plastic in the human body may lead to a range of health problems .

The toxicity of microplastics depends on their shape and size, and increases with their adsorption capacity and toxicity.

Although accurate assessment of human exposure to nanoplastics is challenging due to a lack of validated methods and standardization across analytical procedures , most studies to date have confirmed that nano and microplastics can induce apoptosis and have genetic Toxicity and cytotoxic effects.

Microplastics in the human body

Organisms, especially humans, are exposed to microplastics through three main pathways: ingestion, inhalation and skin contact [2] .

The presence of microplastics in the human body has been confirmed. Microplastics enter the body in different possible ways. Depending on how they enter the human body, microplastics can cause different diseases in humans.

Studies have shown that it is present in various parts of the human body , such as sputum, saliva, hair, skin, feces [2] , lungs [3], maternal and fetal placenta tissue [4] , breast milk [5] and blood [6] Microplastics discovered.

M-NPL is distributed through blood, transcellular, and paracellular transport. They interact with cell membranes through various forces. They are toxic to multiple organ systems. Once internalized by cells, they accumulate in organelles. M-NPL toxicity is related to ROS generation, oxidative stress, Nrf2 and Wnt/β-Catenin signaling pathways. Inflammatory and pro-inflammatory cytokines are also a consequence of M-NPL exposure. M-NPL can induce autophagy, cell membrane destruction and apoptosis [2].

Impact of microplastics on fish and human health

In 1997, it was estimated that more than 200 aquatic animal species would suffer from entanglement in plastic debris [7] . However, as the accumulation of plastic debris in marine ecosystems continues to grow exponentially, the worst-case scenarios are expected to occur in the coming years [2] .

Mismanagement and misuse of plastics have led to widespread contamination of the aquatic environment, affecting all levels of the ecosystem. Fish are easily exposed to microplastics, which are toxic and can accumulate in the digestive tract and other tissues, causing health problems. Humans who eat plastic-contaminated fish are also exposed to these harmful particles, leading to chronic diseases [8] .

How to avoid microplastics in food

Drink filtered tap water

Tap water may contain microplastics, but using a carbon block or distillation filter can effectively remove them. Carbon block filters capture microplastics and other contaminants, while distillation filters heat the water to eliminate impurities.

Limit eating seafood

Be careful about microplastic contamination when consuming seafood. Cook seafood well to break down microplastics, and remove skin and internal organs, as they tend to accumulate microplastics.

Eat more fresh, natural foods

Processed foods like potato chips and frozen meals contain large amounts of microplastics, which break down into harmful chemicals. To reduce exposure, choose unprocessed or minimally processed foods. While some fresh produce may contain microplastics, the levels are still lower compared to processed convenience foods. Also, switch to loose leaf tea instead of bagged tea to avoid ingesting microplastics.

Use loose leaf tea instead of tea bags

Brewing plastic tea bags releases microplastics and nanoplastics. Choose loose leaf tea and use reusable linen tea bags or tea balls.

Avoid single-use packaging , cups and straws

To reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and microplastics, consider bringing your own reusable cutlery and containers when ordering takeout. Plastic to-go containers and disposable cups can leach chemicals into hot food and drinks. By using bamboo cutlery, metal or glass containers, and informing restaurants of your own containers, you can help reduce plastic waste and its long-term impact on the environment.

Replace plastic to-go cups and straws with reusable alternatives to reduce microplastic exposure. Plastic cups and straws made from synthetic materials like polyester and nylon can break down into harmful microplastics and enter the environment. Make sustainable choices and bring your own reusable coffee cup and straws.

Store food in metal or glass containers

Store food in metal or glass containers and avoid plastic wrap or containers to prevent chemicals from being absorbed into the food.

Avoid heating plastic food in the microwave

Heating plastic food in a microwave can release microplastics into the food, posing potential health risks. Even containers labeled "microwave safe" may still release microplastics.

Reduce exposure to microplastics in your home

Reduce exposure to microplastics in your home and create a safer, healthier living environment.

Regular dusting and vacuuming

Microplastics can enter your body through air, food and water. They can be found in dust, so regular cleaning is crucial. Use old sheets instead of microfiber cloths for dusting, as microfiber cloths are a major source of microplastics. Vacuum and dust at least once a week to prevent buildup. Use an air filter or purifier that captures microplastics, and choose hard floors instead of carpets, which release more microplastics.

Laundry measures

Laundries are a major source of microplastics, which are released into wastewater when synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon are washed. To minimize this, there are several things you can do:

• Reduce the frequency of laundry,
• Use cold water instead of hot water,
• Wash with a full load to reduce friction,
• Avoid delicate wash settings,
• Use liquid detergent
• Air dry your clothes instead of using a dryer

If you machine dry your clothes, you can use lint filters and microfiber laundry bags to capture microplastics.

Choose organic clothes and natural fibers

Many clothing materials are made from synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and acrylic. However, these fabrics release large amounts of microplastics with every wash . In order to reduce the release of microplastics during washing, natural materials such as wool, silk, and hemp should be selected and sustainable consumption should be implemented.

Choose plastic-free cosmetics and microbead-free beauty products

About 90% of cosmetics contain microplastics, plastic particles that can enhance texture, color and shine. Read product labels carefully and avoid ingredients such as polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polymethylmethacrylate and acrylate copolymers.

Choose plastic-free products

Support eco-friendly brands with recyclable packaging options like glass and paper to help reduce the need for harmful plastic packaging and protect the environment.

Avoid driving your own vehicle

Car tires produce 28% of microplastics in the ocean. As tires degrade, they release small plastic particles. Choosing public transportation or walking can reduce microplastic pollution by removing one car from the road.

Support environmental legislation

Support organizations that reduce waste and fight plastic pollution in your area. Your participation can lead to real improvements in environmental sustainability. Additionally, choosing plastic-free products and using public transportation can help protect against microplastics and contribute to a greener, healthier environment.

Reference article