Christian Saravia
Microplastics have become one of the biggest threats to our environment. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are often smaller than 5 millimeters. They are found in rivers, soil, oceans, and the air. Many of us know of common sources such as single-use plastics and industrial waste, but there are also unexpected microplastics such as washing machine fibers, tire dust, and everyday cosmetics. These sources are typically overlooked or unheard of, which makes it difficult to address and control. However, knowing about these microplastics and their sources can help to mitigate their impact, which can lead us closer to protecting marine ecosystems and reducing plastic pollution. This blog post will explore the hidden sources of microplastics, their impact on the environment, and the steps that individuals and industries can take to minimize their contribution to this growing issue.
Synthetic Fabrics
Every time synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon are washed, they shed microfibers. The microfibers are so small that they’re typically not captured by wastewater treatment facilities and therefore they end up in oceans and rivers and are ingested by marine life. These microfibers can also end up within the food chain, posing risks to human health as well as wildlife. Microfibers also tend to carry pollutants which exacerbate their impact on the environment. Addressing microfiber pollution is one crucial step to minimizing the effects microplastics have on marine life, ecosystems, and human health. Some ways to reduce microfiber pollution include: using laundry filters or bags, washing synthetic fabrics on a gentle cycle, and choosing natural fibers whenever possible. Industries and policymakers are also exploring better filtration technologies and sustainable alternatives to fabrics. Even though microfibers are a significant contributor to microplastic pollution, they are only one of many hidden sources that affect humans and ecosystems.
Tire Dust
Tires release tiny particles of synthetic rubber into the environment as a vehicle is driving, known as tire dust. These particles are made of synthetic polymers which are not biodegradable and can stay in the environment for decades. Tire dust can also accumulate on the road and eventually enter waterways or storm drains through rainwater, which contributes to microplastic pollution. Once tire dust has entered waterways, it harms marine life due to its toxic chemicals such as heavy metals and other pollutants that are either part of the tire material or absorbed from the roads. These toxins can also impact human health by accumulating in the food chain through marine organisms. Studies have also shown that some of the chemicals in tire dust can harm fish and other aquatic species during their early development stages. Some ways that we can address tire dust pollution include improving tire designs to reduce their wear, promoting eco-friendly materials in tire production, and bettering stormwater management practices to ensure microplastics are filtered out before reaching nearby ecosystems and waterways. Individuals can also help to address tire dust pollution by maintaining proper tire pressure to reduce tire wear and minimize the dust released. Limiting car use, if possible, and choosing alternative transportation, such as cycling, public transportation, or carpooling, can also help decrease the overall microplastic pollution caused by tires.
Cosmetic Microbeads
Products such as exfoliating scrubs, makeup, and even toothpaste can contain microbeads, which are tiny plastic particles that are made to enhance texture or functionality. These microbeads can end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans by slipping through water filtration systems due to their small size. As soon as these microbeads enter the environment, they can be ingested by marine life, which can then end up in the food chain, posing a risk to human and wildlife health. Many countries, including the United States and the European Union, have now banned or restricted microbeads, but they are still found in many products around the world. Addressing the issue of microplastics when it comes to personal care products is an important step in minimizing their impact on the environment. One of the ways that consumers can contribute is by choosing products that are labeled microplastic-free or opting for products that emphasize using biodegradable alternatives, which include jojoba beads or crushed walnut shells.
Microplastics do not remain in one place but are constantly redistributed throughout ecosystems by natural processes. Ecosystems unintentionally can act as pathways for these particles and enable their spread across the environment. Wildlife interactions can accelerate this process through ingestion, migration, and waste which causes microplastics to disperse even further. This natural redistribution system shows how pollution infiltrates and persists within environments, eventually affecting human food systems. This causes long-term health effects, such as inflammation, toxicity, and disruption of biological processes. Addressing these hidden sources is an important step in reducing plastic pollution and protecting ecosystems, wildlife, and human health.
In conclusion, microplastics are a growing threat to humans and the environment, and there are hidden and unexpected sources such as tire dust, cosmetic microbeads, and synthetic fabrics. Yet, there is still hope through action and collective efforts. Individuals can reduce their contribution to microplastic pollution by taking small steps such as using laundry filters, opting for natural fibers, supporting microbead bans, and driving less whenever possible. On a larger scale, industries and policymakers can focus on utilizing sustainable innovations and improving filtration systems to prevent microplastics from entering the environment. Addressing microplastic pollution is crucial in protecting marine life, ecosystems, and future generations from harm.
Citations
Day, L. (2023, September 28). Tire dust makes up the majority of ocean microplastics, study finds. The Drive. https://www.thedrive.com/news/tire-dust-makes-up-the-majority-of-ocean-microplastics-study-finds
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Li, Y., Tao, L., Wang, Q., Wang, F., Li, G., & Song, M. (2023). Potential Health impact of Microplastics: A review of environmental distribution, human exposure, and toxic effects. Environment & Health, 1(4), 249–257. https://doi.org/10.1021/envhealth.3c00052
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