[INFORMATIVE] Microplastic Pollution

Microplastic Pollution

By: Naransuvd Turtogtokh

Plastics are found everywhere and can be found in all sizes and shapes. However, most of them end up in the ocean. There is something defined as 'microplastics'. They are small pieces of plastics less than 5 millimeters long. Microplastics are created from various sources, including breaking down of larger plastic items such as bottles, shopping bags, and synthetic fibers. These tiny particles are very dangerous to our oceans and aquatic life.

ItThrough the usage of microbeads, which are often included in cosmetic products, they end up in wastewater and consequently pollute rivers, lakes, and oceans. Over time, due to sunlight, wind, and water exposure, these microbeads can even be found in the soil, air, and within food chains in small quantities. This outburst mainly affects aquatic ecosystems.

Firstly, microplastics result in severe threats to the life of marine organisms. Animals tend to eat microplastics by mistake because they resemble food substances. From zooplankton to larger marine mammals, many species are affected, impacting the whole food chain or even the ecosystem.

Once at high doses in the soil, they disrupt nutrient cycling and threaten microbial communities vital to soil vitality. These particles could alter the soil structure and water retention capability, which in turn would reduce agricultural productivity. In addition, if these microplastics reach the agricultural fields with contaminated compost or the watering of fields with wastewater, a risk to human health is posed.

It is important to note that researchers have found that even bottled and tap water, which have been advertised as very safe and clean, still contain microplastics. This brings to light more concerns regarding microplastics harboring human health issues. While much research work continues, some have already indicated human ingestion as a possible source of entry for harmful substances into human bodies, which could have long-term effects on health. They have also been found in air particles that are likely to be inhaled and cause infections in the respiratory system.

The large amount of plastic pollution has led to support for policy changes and innovative solutions to address this massive microplastic crisis. Bans are in the pipelines for single-use plastics, with the promotion of recycling and development of biodegradable alternatives. Workers are now engaged in incorporating filters and advanced treatments into wastewater management systems to trap microplastics before they have the time and opportunity to infiltrate natural water bodies.

In conclusion, microplastics pose an environmental challenge arising from our reliance on plastic utilities. These small particles within the ecosystems threaten the wildlife and soil health and might even pose risks to human health. The issue that surrounds the whole complexity of microplastics calls for an all-round approach, whereby waste management reforms, public education, and biotechnological advances should be used to mitigate these impacts. Therefore, the world needs to unite as a community and understand the consequences of microplastic pollution. Joint efforts need to be taken to protect the environment and health for the coming generation and the world in which we live.

References

Rapid single-particle chemical imaging of nanoplastics by SRS microscopy. Qian N, Gao X, Lang X, Deng H, Bratu TM, Chen Q, Stapleton P, Yan B, Min W. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2024 Jan 16;121(3):e2300582121. doi: 10.1073/pnas.2300582121. Epub 2024 Jan 8. PMID: 38190543.