Dear readers of Fairness Magazine, recently there has been much talk about Macroplastics and Microplastics, which, according to a study published in the journal “Pnas” via bottled mineral waters, contaminated by tiny particles of microplastics released into the water, would be ingested by our bodies, causing serious long-term damage, considering they are absorbed by blood cells, etc. At Fairness Magazine, we strive daily to sensitize readers towards a more conscious use of plastic materials, aiming for a Plastic Free future. Plastics have become an omnipresent part of our daily lives, and although they have been a revolutionary discovery in the materials world, the environmental consequences of plastics have often been neglected for decades. Two of the most serious threats associated with plastics are macroplastics and microplastics. But what are they and how can these particles cause devastating damage when ingested?
What is a Macroplastic?
Macroplastics are plastic objects larger than 5 millimeters. These can be plastic bags, bottles, toys, and other common items. One of the main concerns associated with macroplastics is their persistence in the environment. Due to their resistance to degradation, they can remain in the environment for decades or even centuries, causing irreparable damage to marine life and land.
The Harms of Macroplastics
Marine Fauna Ingestion – Macroplastics may seem inviting to marine animals, but ingesting them can have lethal consequences. Animals can choke or suffer internal damage while attempting to ingest these objects, leading to a painful death.
Pollution of Terrestrial Ecosystems – Macroplastics that end up on land can pollute soils, cause obstructions in drainage systems, and damage vegetation. These materials can also release toxic chemicals into the environment.
But what is a Microplastic?
Microplastics are plastic fragments measuring less than 5 millimeters in diameter. These particles can be created by the degradation of macroplastics or can be intentionally added to products such as sunscreens or detergents. Their small size makes them particularly insidious as they can easily infiltrate every corner of the environment.
What are the Harms of Microplastics?
Microplastic pollution has become a matter of growing concern globally. These tiny plastic particles, often invisible to the naked eye, have pervasively infiltrated our aquatic ecosystems, causing irreversible damage to the marine environment and lakes. But how do these microplastics actually end up in the sea and lakes? Let’s see together the contamination process and its dramatic consequences.
The Main Sources of Microplastics
Microplastics have several sources of origin, but the main ones include – Degradation of Macroplastics – One of the most significant sources of microplastics is the degradation of larger plastic objects, such as bottles, bags, and toys. Weathering and marine wave action can fragment these materials into smaller pieces.
Production and Improper Disposal – The widespread use of products containing microplastics, such as cosmetics and detergents, contributes to the direct release of microplastics into the environment when these products are washed away and end up in water systems.
Human Activities – Improper use and disposal of plastic items, such as straws and disposable utensils, increase the input of microplastics into aquatic ecosystems.
The Journey of Microplastics to the Sea and Lakes
Unfortunately, once released into the environment, microplastics follow a intricate path before reaching the seas and lakes, passing through sewage systems and eventually released into the sea
Runoff – Microplastics on streets and urban areas can be transported to sewage systems through runoff.
Wastewater Treatment – Although best practices are used, not all wastewater treatment systems can effectively capture microplastics, allowing them to pass into water bodies.
River Transport – Rivers can act as transport routes for microplastics, carrying them from urban centers to the ocean or lakes.
Deposition on the Seabed – Heavier microplastics can settle on the bottom of water bodies, where they can persist for a long time.
Marine and Lacustrine Pollution – Once in marine or lacustrine waters, microplastics can be ingested by aquatic organisms, thus entering the food chain
What are the Consequences of Microplastic Pollution?
The ingestion of microplastics by marine and lacustrine fauna can lead to serious health problems. Organisms that ingest these particles can suffer physical and chemical damage, and in turn, become sources of contamination for animals that prey on them, including humans, thus causing a chain of pollution that affects the entire ecosystem. Microplastics can absorb and transport chemical pollutants, further increasing their negative impact on environmental and living organisms’ health.
Microplastic pollution is a global challenge that requires coordinated international action, and reducing the use of single-use plastics, effective recycling, and public awareness are fundamental steps to addressing this growing threat to our seas and lakes. Only through collective efforts can we hope to mitigate the effects of microplastic pollution and preserve the beauty and vitality of our aquatic ecosystems for future generations.
Absorption by Marine Organisms – Microplastics can be ingested by small marine organisms such as plankton, which forms the basis of the oceanic food chain. These particles can then be transferred through the food chain, ending up on our tables.
Impacts on Human Health – Recently, concerns have arisen that microplastics may also harm human health. Plastic fragments have been found in our drinking water and food. Although the long-term consequences are not yet fully understood, it is clear that this exposure could pose risks to our health.
Macroplastics and microplastics represent a growing threat to our planet and the life that inhabits it. The production and responsible use of plastics, along with effective collection and recycling, are essential to address this environmental crisis. It is therefore crucial to raise public awareness about the harm these particles can cause when ingested, and only through a global effort can we hope to protect our environment and preserve the health of future generations, towards a Plastic Free world.
Ig – @fairness_mag
