Activity 3.3.3 – My Plastic Use

Microplastics: Definition, Sources, and Impact

Microplastics are small plastic particles that measure less than 5 millimeters in size. These tiny particles are

created when larger plastic products degrade or break apart due to environmental factors like UV radiation,

mechanical wear, and exposure to water. Microplastics can also be intentionally manufactured for use in personal

care products such as exfoliating scrubs or toothpaste (Haab & Haab, n.d.). Despite their small size, microplastics

have a significant impact on both the environment and human health. This essay will outline the definition

of microplastics, their sources, how they enter the environment, and the consequences they pose to humans ecosystems.

Where Microplastics Are Found

Microplastics are found in a wide range of environments. Oceans are perhaps the most well-known repository

for these particles, with the Great Pacific Garbage Patch being one of the largest accumulations of plastic debris

in the world (Van Sebille, 2013). These oceanic garbage patches contain a combination of larger plastic debris and

microplastics, which are carried by ocean currents and can persist in the environment for centuries. Microplastics

are also prevalent in freshwater systems, such as rivers and lakes, where they are often transported from land-based pollution

sources.

In addition to natural environments, microplastics are found in numerous consumer products. Many personal

care products, such as shampoos, toothpaste, and exfoliating scrubs, intentionally contain microbeads (Dudas, 2018).

These microbeads, made from polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), are washed down the drain and enter the water

system, as they are too small to be captured by most wastewater treatment facilities (Haab & Haab, n.d.).

Furthermore, synthetic textiles like polyester and nylon shed microplastic fibers when washed. These fibers are a common

source of microplastics in the oceans and rivers, contributing to water pollution (Dudas, 2018).

How Microplastics Get There

Microplastics enter the environment primarily through the breakdown of larger plastic items. Plastic products

such as bottles, bags, and packaging slowly degrade into smaller pieces due to sunlight, wind, and water. As these

plastics fragment, they release microplastics dispersed throughout the environment (Haab & Haab, n.d.). The degradation

of larger plastics and microplastics is directly released from consumer products. Personal care items like exfoliating

facial scrubs and toothpaste containing microbeads are rinsed down the drain and make their way into water systems (Dudas, 2018).

When washed, synthetic textiles release microplastic fibers that are washed out of laundry machines and into wastewater systems (Dudas, 2018).

Another significant contributor to microplastic pollution is the wear and tear of plastic products. Items like synthetic clothing,

plastic bottles, and food packaging degrade and break apart over time. When we wash clothes made of synthetic fabrics like polyester

or nylon, microplastic fibers are released into wastewater, eventually entering aquatic environments (Van Sebille, 2013).

Why Microplastics Are Problematic to Humans and the Environment

Microplastics pose significant environmental and human health risks., Microplastics can be ingested, either accidentally or because

they resemble food. Many marine species, including fish, turtles, and seabirds, mistake microplastics for food, and consumption

can lead to physical harm or digestive issues (Watson, 2024). Ingested microplastics can cause internal blockages or reduce the absorption

of nutrients, leading to malnutrition and death. Additionally, microplastics can act as carriers for other harmful chemicals, such as

pesticides, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs). These toxic substances can be absorbed by animals that ingest the plastics,

which then move up the food chain, potentially affecting humans who consume contaminated seafood.

For humans, microplastics represent an emerging health risk. Recent studies have found microplastics in tap water, bottled water, and seafood

products (Watson, 2024). These particles can enter the human body through ingestion or inhalation and accumulate over time.

The health effects of microplastics on humans are still being studied. Still, concerns have been raised about their potential to disrupt hormones,

cause inflammation, or contribute to the development of diseases (Haab & Haab, n.d.). Microplastics contain harmful chemicals,

such as bisphenol A (BPA), which has been linked to reproductive and immune system issues. Microplastics in the air and water may pose a

significant risk as they can be inhaled or absorbed by the body.

Environmental concerns are also significant. Microplastics persist in the environment for hundreds or even thousands of years, contributing to

long-term pollution. Once in the environment, these particles are difficult to remove, and their presence in ecosystems continues to grow

(Haab & Haab, n.d.). Efforts to clean up microplastics are still in the early stages, but research shows that solutions such as filtering wastewater

and reducing plastic consumption can help mitigate the issue (Van Sebille, 2013). Without significant efforts to reduce plastic use and improve

waste management systems, microplastic pollution will worsen.

Microplastics are a growing environmental problem threatening ecological systems and human health. These tiny plastic particles, which result from

the degradation of larger plastic products or are intentionally included in consumer goods, are found in oceans, rivers, lakes, and even the air. Microplastics

enter the environment through various pathways, including the breakdown of plastic items and the washing of synthetic fabrics. They pose serious risks

to wildlife, which can mistake them for food, and humans, who can ingest or inhale them. With the global increase in plastic waste, microplastic pollution

continues to rise, making it essential to adopt strategies to reduce plastic consumption and improve waste management practices.

We can only begin to address the long-term consequences of microplastic pollution through concerted efforts.

This photo collage showcases the various plastic items I use in just one day (or over three days, depending on your choice).

Plastics are so deeply integrated into my daily routine that it's often easy to overlook how much of it surrounds us. From clothing made

of synthetic materials like polyester to household items such as plastic containers, sponges, and cleaning bottles, plastics are present in nearly

every aspect of my life. Even personal care products like shampoo bottles, toothpaste tubes, and hair brushes are made of plastic.

There are also plastic products that help us with basic tasks like eating, drinking, and cleaning—such as plastic utensils, cups, and laundry

detergent containers. Food packaging, including chip bags and plastic water bottles, is another significant source of plastic waste. Items like

keyboards, school bags, glasses, and even broom handles are all made from various types of plastic, which will continue to persist in our environment

long after they’ve been discarded.

The plastic fibers in blankets, bath towels, and clothes also shed microplastics when washed, adding to the pollution. While these plastics

serve important functions, their environmental impact is undeniable, as they contribute to plastic pollution and break down into harmful

microplastics that can end up in our water, soil, and bodies.

References

Dudas, S. (2018). Microplastics are everywhere | Sarah Dudas | TEDxBinghamtonUniversity. TEDx. Retrieved from https://www.ted.com/.

Haab, S., & Haab, K. (n.d.). The environmental impacts of microplastics: An investigation of microplastic pollution in North Country waterbodies. Adventure Scientists.

Van Sebille, E. (2013). Charting the garbage patches of the seas [video]. University of New South Wales. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLE4gSUs3To.

Watson, C. (2024, March 7). Plastic found inside more than 50% of plaques from clogged arteries. Science Alert. Retrieved from https://www.sciencealert.com/plastic-found-inside-more-than-50-of-plaques-from-clogged-arteries.

Grammarly, www.grammarly.com/grammar-check.