Plastic particles have been found in the farthest reaches of the planet – even in the Mariana Trench, the deepest ocean trench on Earth. And now, recent research reveals that microplastics have been detected in blood, breast milk and other bodily fluids.

Classified as tiny plastic particles smaller than 5mm in diameter, microplastics float around in our drinking water, drift around in the air, and settle everywhere we go. They’re small enough for humans to inhale or ingest, without knowing, causing potential health risks including chronic inflammation, respiratory problems, and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.

Plastic waste, cosmetics, textiles and industrial processes can all release microplastics into the environment, disrupting ecosystems.

While nanoplastics are even smaller (between 1 and 1 000 nanometres in diameter), there is very little research on them to date, and the full impact of their reach is yet to be understood.

You can make a difference. By being aware of the impact of microplastics, and adjusting your purchasing habits, you can bring about change, and minimise your exposure.

Avoid single-use plastics

Designed to be discarded after you’ve used them, plastic knives and forks, food wrappers, straws and plastic food trays are all examples of single-use plastics. If you’re using cloth shopping bags, and glass or metal water bottles, you’re already doing your bit. The issue, according to an article by Greenpeace, is that 90% of plastic is never recycled after it’s discarded. Moreover, disposable plastic items don’t biodegrade, and break down as microplastics in the environment.

Choose natural fibres where possible

As synthetic fabrics such as polyester, acrylic, rayon and spandex also release microplastics, especially when they’re washed, you’re advised to choose clothing and textiles made from natural fibres. Consider organic cotton, hemp, silk, wool or denim. If you do purchase synthetic fabrics, opt for items that don’t need to be washed as often.

Filter your water

Install a filtration system to eliminate microplastics from your drinking water. You can also use a water filter in your water bottle, replacing it every few months.

Check your bathroom and medicine cabinet

Polyethylene or polypropylene are ingredients in many cosmetic and personal-care products that release micro- plastics into the water system. Check the labels of your products, to ensure they’re polyethylene and polypropylene-free.

Bottom line

Small changes to your habits can have a significant impact. Be sure to consult credible sources, keep up-to-date, and make informed choices, for both your health and that of the planet.

Written by LifeAssist