Activity 3.3.3 – My Plastic Use

    Microplastics, a term that has garnered increasing attention in recent years, refers to tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters. (Haab & Haab, n.d.) They come in two main categories: primary and secondary microplastics. Primary microplastics are intentionally manufactured small plastic particles used in various consumer products, such as microbeads in personal care items and abrasive blasting media. They are introduced into the environment through product use and improper disposal. Secondary microplastics, on the other hand, are created when larger plastic items break down into smaller fragments due to environmental factors like sunlight, mechanical stress, or microbial degradation. (Rogers 2023).

    The distribution of microplastics is wide-ranging and has been observed in various ecosystems, even in seemingly pristine locations. Microplastics take on different forms, including microbeads, microfibers, and micro fragments, and have been found in oceans, seas, freshwater systems, soil, and even the atmosphere. In marine environments, they enter through runoff from land, industrial discharges, and maritime activities, posing significant risks to marine life. (Haab & Haab, n.d.). They enter freshwater through urban runoff, industrial effluents, and atmospheric deposition. Even soil is affected, either through the degradation of plastics used in agriculture or as a result of microplastics from various sources settling onto the land. Furthermore, microplastics have been detected in the atmosphere, indicating their ability to become airborne particles. (Rogers 2023).

    The environmental consequences of microplastics are profound. Firstly, they pose a direct threat to wildlife in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Marine animals often ingest these tiny particles, mistaking them for food, which can lead to malnutrition, reduced reproduction rates, and death. Terrestrial animals may ingest microplastics through soil contamination or contaminated food sources, leading to similar problems. Additionally, microplastics can disrupt ecosystems by affecting the behavior and physiology of species within them. Changes in feeding patterns, reproductive success, and predator-prey interactions can have far-reaching consequences for the balance and sustainability of ecosystems. One significant issue is bioaccumulation, where microplastics accumulate in the food chain, moving from smaller organisms to larger ones. This process means that humans who consume seafood may also be exposed to microplastics, raising concerns about potential health risks. Beyond environmental implications, microplastics also pose potential health risks to humans. Ingestion of microplastics can occur through the consumption of seafood, drinking water, and even food grown in contaminated soils. While the health implications of this ingestion are not yet fully understood, they raise significant concerns. Microplastics are implemented into several cosmetics such as body wash, face wash, and toothpaste. Exfoliating products like these use microbeads and when they get washed down drains, they enter oceans and streams contributing to microplastic pollution. (Haab & Haab, n.d.). Airborne microplastics are another potential risk, as inhalation of these particles may reach the respiratory system, leading to respiratory problems or other health issues in the long term. Furthermore, microplastics can act as carriers of toxic chemicals, as they can absorb and transport pollutants in the environment. When ingested, they may release these harmful substances into the organisms that consume them, posing a health risk. 

In conclusion, microplastics represent an ever-present threat to the environment and human health. Their widespread presence, small size, and capacity to absorb and transport toxic substances make them a significant concern for ecosystems and human societies alike.

 



 Here is a collage of all the plastics I used in one day. This goes to show that almost everything we use is made of plastic and some can be microplastic one day if not disposed of properly. It is so important that we are aware of the plastics that exist in our everyday life. It can help to make you stop and think about what products you are using and how you may be affecting our planet.



Resources:


Haab, S., & Haab, K. (n.d.). The environmental impacts of microplastics: An investigation of microplastic pollution in North Country waterbodies. Adventure Scientists. https://www.adventurescientists.org/uploads/7/3/9/8/7398741/haabhaab2016_environmental_impacts_of_microplastics.pdf 

Dudas, S. (2018). Microplastics are everywhere [Video]. TEDx Binghampton University. Retrieved fromMicroplastics are everywhere | Sarah Dudas | TEDxBinghamtonUniversityLinks to an external site. 

Rogers, K. (2023, October 31). microplastics. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/technology/microplastic 

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