Invisible remnants of eroded plastic from toothbrushes, candy wrappers, and small toys are omnipresent. They can be found in our laundry bins, the deepest parts of the ocean, and even in our own bloodstream. These microplastic particles are so tiny that they can penetrate biological barriers like our skin, gut, and placental tissue. As a result, we have all become partially composed of plastic. However, just how concerned should we be about this, and is there any way to minimize our exposure?
Stephanie Wright, an environmental toxicologist at Imperial College, London, explains that due to a lack of human data and epidemiological studies, we are not yet aware of the harmful effects of microplastics. Nonetheless, she believes that reducing particle exposure in general, including microplastics, would be beneficial. Unfortunately, avoiding microplastics is challenging because they can be found everywhere – in the air we breathe, the water we drink, the dust, and even our food.
Processed and packaged foods and drinks pose a significant risk for high exposure to microplastics, according to Wright. These plastics shed more easily when exposed to heat. Additionally, hot liquid in plastic-lined cups and takeaway containers can release micro- and nanoparticles, although it is uncertain if those are true plastic particles.
To minimize exposure to microplastics, Wright advises against heating anything in plastic or consuming hot liquids that have come into contact with plastic. This includes microwaving food in Tupperware or using boil-in-the-bag rice. She also recommends choosing tap water over bottled water, as some bottled waters, including those in glass bottles, contain thousands of microplastic particles per liter. If possible, filtering tap water is also a good idea.
Mark Taylor, chief environmental scientist at the Environmental Protection Authority in Victoria, Australia, suggests that while home water filters may seem like a good solution, they are often made of plastic that can degrade and shed microplastics. It’s crucial to strike a balance between the risk of microplastics and practical actions for a longer lifespan.
Taylor states that it’s impossible to completely avoid plastic in our daily lives, especially when it comes to exposure at home. Instead of worrying about every bit of plastic we encounter, he suggests minimizing unnecessary uses of plastic. For instance, opting for natural fabrics over synthetic ones, choosing glass over plastic in the kitchen, and avoiding unnecessary single-use plastics like plastic spoons and plates – especially if you have kids.
On a personal level, Taylor makes choices based on unnecessary exposure while also considering his role as a consumer. He actively avoids buying food wrapped in plastic or products containing harmful substances. Although it may be difficult to determine the composition of plastic products, such as watches, he believes every little action matters in reducing exposure.
In terms of reducing exposure at home, regular vacuuming is essential. It effectively reduces the load of microplastics and other pollutants, preventing their accumulation on various surfaces. Taylor advises using robot vacuum cleaners or wet mopping for hard floors. Vacuuming carpets also helps capture loose fibers that would otherwise be shed through everyday use.
Malcolm Hudson, an environmental science associate professor at the University of Southampton, emphasizes the importance of diverting our energy towards stopping further accumulation of plastic in the environment. While acknowledging our current exposure to microplastics, he believes it is crucial to focus on long-term prevention rather than panicking about the present.
Hudson explains that humans have evolved to deal with the inhalation and ingestion of impurities. Our respiratory and digestive systems are designed to trap and eliminate foreign particles. However, in the future, if the environment becomes more contaminated, the risk of harm may increase. The accumulation and aging of microplastics can lead to higher toxicity and potential health issues.
In conclusion, while the full extent of the adverse effects of microplastics remains unknown, it is advisable to minimize exposure where possible. Avoiding heating food in plastic, choosing tap water over bottled water, minimizing unnecessary plastic use, and practicing regular cleaning habits can all contribute to reducing exposure to microplastics.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
