How Can Microplastics Harm Us?

We are consuming microplastics on a daily basis. The fruits, vegetables, fish, or meat we eat, the water we drink, the air we inhale, are all ways microplastic can enter our bodies. Studies revealed by the Orb Media Group examine microplastic contamination in tap water, finding that 83% of tap water worldwide contains some amount of microplastic pollution. Global studies have only uncovered finite information on the possible consequences for human health by ingesting these plastics.

In order to develop this highly versatile, flexible and convenient product, manufacturers require the use of certain additives; these substances manipulate the “mechanical, physical, and chemical” properties of plastic, producing high durability against environmental degradation and aesthetic appeal. According to several studies by the NCBI, the toxic substances readily used in the production process (including flame retardants, BPA, Phthalates, etc.), can cause severe health implications for humans. Microplastics can be endocrine disruptors, carcinogens (causing cancer), they can also cause gastrointestinal complications, respiratory distress, immune deficiencies, and the list goes on.

Owner/Principal Scientist at Alpine EcoSciences, Linda M Ziccardi, published a research article, “Microplastics As Vectors For Bioaccumulation Of Hydrophobic Organic Chemicals In The Marine Environment,” displaying that pollutants such as pesticides, PCBs, and PAHs (all harmful to human/marine animals’ health), have the possibility to adhere onto and absorb into microplastics. Not only does the ingestion of plastics directly harm us, but by feeding on marine life, like mussels and scallops, Ziccardi explains, these “filter feeders” may not be rid of all of the harmful substances, or Hydrophobic organic chemicals (HOCs). These substances may then travel up the trophic levels, accumulate, and cause harmful effects on our health when they eventually contaminate our meals.

Some may think we have time before this can ever affect us, but several studies have already shown that the dangers of microplastic pollution are present and foreseeable. Two common plastics, polypropylene (from packing, consumer products, automobile parts, etc.) and polyethylene (from grocery bags, cartons, bottles, agri mulch, etc.), have been discovered in human stool.

Clearly the vast implications of microplastic pollution are threatening to our health and safety. If we wish to protect ourselves and loved ones, we must take accountability for this plastic pandemic and try to find and develop comprehensive solutions to mitigate further damage.