In recent years, a silent menace has emerged, threatening the environment and human health. Microplastics, tiny particles of plastic less than 5 millimeters in size, have infiltrated our oceans, soil, and even the air we breathe. With their omnipresence, microplastics have become a matter of growing concern for the environment and human health.
Recent evidence indicates that humans constantly inhale and ingest microplastic through contaminated seafood. This includes fish and shellfish. Additionally, microplastics have been found in tap water, bottled water, and even commonly consumed beverages, such as beer and salt. In fact, a new study estimates that the average adult consumes approximately 2,000 microplastics per year through salt.
Different chemicals can leach from our plastic water bottles, knives and dermatologic products to enter our bodies. These compounds are linked to serious health issues such as endocrine disruption, weight gain, insulin resistance, decreased reproductive health, and cancer.
From decreasingly smaller plastic pieces being found, what is the effect of microplastics on human health? What does this mean for our health- it is still unknown and a mystery.
The term microplastics refers to pieces of plastic which are smaller than 0.5mm in diameter, which is roughly equivalent to a grain of rice. Meanwhile, nanoplastics are far smaller, at just 100 nanometres or less.
There is an overwhelming consensus among all stakeholders that plastics do not belong in the environment, and measures should be taken to mitigate exposure. UNDP Kosovo, has recently supported Ministry of Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure(MESPI) into developing and launching the Circular Economy Roadmap – a great guide on how to smoothly transit to a more resilient environment and sustainable economy for a range of stakeholders in the public and private sectors.
In addition to supporting institutions with policies and interventions into advancing the green agenda,UNDP works a lot in raising awareness among the general public about environmental challenges.
The presence of microplastics may increase the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular problems among people with heart disease. The tiny plastics were found to double the risk of stroke or heart attack.
Scientists are finding microplastics in almost every part of the body, including lungs and the stomach, prompting questions about how they may be harmful.
The study, published recently in the New England Journal of Medicine, found heart disease patients with microplastics in the blood vessels on either side of their neck. These vessels deliver blood from the heart to the brain and head. Patients with microplastics were twice as likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke. These patients were also more likely to die over the next three years than people who had no microplastics in their carotid arteries.
Microplastics have been found all over the world, from Antarctica to the bottom of the Atlantic ocean, and even in clouds.
Plastic doesn’t decompose in the way food and paper do. Instead, it breaks down into tinier and tinier pieces. When these pieces shrink below five millimeters in size – about the width of a small paperclip – they become what’s known as microplastic.
Microplastics smaller than a micrometer are called nanoplastics, small enough to breach cell barriers.
As plastic is one of the most widely used materials in the world, microplastics have found their way into nearly everything, including animal products, water and even air.
Because of microplastics’ size, you may not be able to avoid exposure completely. But there are ways to reduce how many microplastics get into your body.
Tips to reduce exposure
- Dust and vacuum regularly. Removing excess dust from your house can help cut down on the amount of microplastic fibers in the dust you could be breathing or otherwise consuming.
- Avoid drinking from disposable plastic water bottles. If you have no choice, try to keep them out of the sun, in a cool, dry environment. Disposable plastic water bottles degrade very easily in response to temperature change or friction.
- Filter your water. Due to widespread use and pollution of plastic, water can sometimes contain microplastic particles. Home water filters can be effective at reducing many contaminants, including microplastics.
- Avoid plastic cutting boards. There are plenty of alternatives to use, like wood, glass and steel.
- Microwave your food in glass containers, rather than plastic or takeaway containers, which can release millions of microplastic particles into your food.
How is the World dealing with this crisis?
As the world becomes increasingly aware of the environmental and health hazards posed by microplastics, a wave of innovative startups is stepping up to address this pressing issue. These companies are developing cutting-edge technologies and solutions aimed at reducing microplastic pollution and mitigating its impact on ecosystems and human health. Here are some notable approaches these startups are taking:
1. Advanced Filtration Systems
Many startups are designing advanced filtration systems to capture microplastics at their source. For example, companies like Xeros Technology are developing laundry systems that prevent microfibers from washing into waterways. Their patented technology uses specially designed filters that capture microscopic particles during the washing process, significantly reducing the number of microplastics entering the environment.
2. Biodegradable Alternatives
To combat the production of microplastics, some startups are focused on creating biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics. Companies like BioCellection are developing methods to convert plastic waste into biodegradable materials, reducing the reliance on traditional plastics that break down into harmful microplastics.
3. Innovative Waste Management Solutions
Startups such as Loliware are reimagining how we approach single-use plastics. By creating edible and biodegradable products, they aim to eliminate plastic waste before it even reaches the environment. Their products are designed to break down naturally, preventing the release of microplastics.
4. Awareness and Education Platforms
Startups like Plastic Pollution Coalition are focused on raising awareness about microplastics and their impact on health and the environment. By providing educational resources and engaging communities, they aim to inspire collective action and promote sustainable practices to reduce plastic consumption.
5. Research and Development
Many startups are dedicated to researching the effects of microplastics on human health and ecosystems. Algalife, for instance, is exploring the use of algae to absorb and break down microplastics in water. By harnessing the natural properties of algae, they aim to develop a sustainable solution for cleaning contaminated waters.
6. Partnerships and Collaborations
Recognizing the complexity of the microplastics problem, many startups are forming partnerships with governments, NGOs, and larger corporations to amplify their impact. Collaborative efforts can lead to innovative solutions, improved regulations, and greater public awareness.
A Collective Responsibility for a Plastic-Free Future
The rise of startups dedicated to combating microplastics highlights a critical turning point in our approach to environmental sustainability. As these innovative companies tackle the microplastics crisis from multiple angles—through advanced filtration technologies, biodegradable alternatives, and awareness initiatives—they remind us that solutions are possible when creativity meets determination.
Real Sheldon: a Science Blog 
Leave a comment