Microplastics pollution research~ What have we learned? By Julie Peller Ph.D.

Green Junction

A new article in the esteemed journal Science has the title “Twenty years of microplastics pollution research—what have we learned?” The authors make numerous important points about our understanding of microplastics, including “They are pervasive in food and drink and have been detected throughout the human body, with emerging evidence of negative effects.” Many studies that have probed the effects of microplastics on human health indicate that we should be concerned. 

The article’s authors believe we will learn much more about the health effects of microplastics over the next decade. In the meantime, what will be the consequences if we continue to accept all this plastic in our daily lives? Most businesses and government bodies are not responding effectively with this information.  Local business owners and organizations cite concerns about the cost of switching from single use plastics that release microplastics, to other materials, suggesting that environmental and public health take a back seat to finances. 

We all have the capacity to reduce plastic. For example, most glitter and confetti are microplastics. These primary microplastics (purposefully created as small plastic pieces) can be eliminated or made from biodegradable materials. Huge amounts of microplastics are released from our plastic clothes, those made from polyester, nylon, acrylic, spandex and other synthetic textiles. Fast fashions – made cheaply for limited wear – are made mostly of polyester. Minimizing these purchases will reduce these microplastics, which we unknowingly inhale and ingest. Plastic mulch or fabric, used extensively in agriculture and landscaping, form microplastics that pollute soils, water and crops. Plastic netting is not required for the growth of new grass and natural substitutes are available to protect soil. 

A summary statement from the paper is “policy action does not have to wait, it can be justified on the basis of the precautionary principle and so measures can, and arguably should, be taken now to reduce emissions.” As we wait for people in positions of power and influence to respond, we can choose to reduce plastics, especially for our youth.

Julie Peller, Ph.D., is an environmental chemist (Professor of Chemistry at Valparaiso University). She has been writing a weekly column called The Green Junction for the past seven years and is helping to move the call of Laudato Si to action forward. Her Research Interests are advanced oxidation for aqueous solutions, water quality analyses, emerging contaminants, air quality analyses, Lake Michigan shoreline challenges (Cladophora, water, and sediment contaminants), and student and citizen participation in environmental work.