Microplastics
Tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in diameter that result from the breakdown of larger plastics or are manufactured at microscopic size. They are found in oceans, soil, air, food, drinking water, and human blood and organs.
Microplastics have become one of the most pervasive pollutants on Earth. They've been found on Mount Everest, in Arctic ice, in the Mariana Trench, and in human placentas. A 2024 study estimated that the average person ingests about 5 grams of microplastic per week, roughly the weight of a credit card.
Sources
The main sources of microplastics are: synthetic textiles (35% of ocean microplastics come from washing synthetic clothing), tire wear (28% of ocean microplastics), city dust, road markings, marine coatings, personal care products (microbeads in scrubs and toothpaste), and the breakdown of larger plastic waste. A single polyester garment can release 700,000 microplastic fibers in one wash.
Health Concerns
Research into health effects is still evolving, but growing evidence links microplastics to inflammation, oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, and potential carcinogenic effects. A 2024 study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people with microplastics in their arterial plaque had a 4.5x higher risk of heart attack or stroke. Nanoplastics (under 1 micrometer) can cross cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier.
What You Can Do
Reduce synthetic clothing purchases and wash synthetics in microfiber-catching bags. Use a water filter that captures particles down to 1 micrometer. Avoid single-use plastics, especially for food and beverages. Choose personal care products without microbeads (check for polyethylene or polypropylene in ingredients). Support policies banning microplastics in products and investing in wastewater treatment upgrades.
Related Terms
Composting
The natural process of decomposing organic matter (food scraps, yard waste, paper) into nutrient-rich soil amendment. Composting diverts waste from landfills and reduces methane emissions while creating valuable fertilizer.
Sustainability
Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It encompasses environmental protection, social equity, and economic viability, often represented as three interconnected pillars.
Zero Waste
A philosophy and design framework aimed at eliminating waste by rethinking how resources flow through society. The goal is to ensure all products are reused, repaired, recycled, or composted, sending nothing to landfills or incinerators.