Microplastics
What Are Microfibres and How Do They Impact the Environment?
Microfibres are one of the most common yet overlooked contributors to environmental pollution. These tiny...
3 min read
Microplastics have become one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time. These tiny plastic particles are making their way into every corner of the planet, from the deepest ocean trenches to our very own food and water. But what exactly are microplastics, and why should we be concerned? Let’s dive into the details and explore their impact on our oceans, their sources, and what we can do to help combat this growing crisis.
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are small plastic particles less than 5 millimetres in size. They are categorised into two main types: primary and secondary microplastics.
- Primary microplastics are manufactured to be small, such as microbeads found in cosmetics and cleaning products or plastic pellets used in industrial processes.
- Secondary microplastics result from the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as bottles, bags, and fishing nets, due to exposure to sunlight, waves, and weathering.
These tiny fragments are virtually impossible to remove from the environment once they’ve entered it. They’re not biodegradable, meaning they persist for decades, if not centuries, causing long-term harm to marine ecosystems and human health.
The Current Threat to Our Oceans
The oceans are the final resting place for much of the world’s plastic waste. It is estimated that around 11 million metric tonnes of plastic enter the oceans each year, and a significant portion of this eventually becomes microplastic. These particles have been found in the stomachs of marine life, from plankton to whales, and even in the seafood we eat.
Impact on Marine Life:
- Microplastics are often mistaken for food by marine animals, leading to ingestion. This can block their digestive tracts, cause malnutrition, and even lead to death.
- They also act as carriers for harmful toxins, which can accumulate in the food chain, posing risks to larger predators, including humans.
Impact on Humans:
Recent studies have detected microplastics in human blood, lungs, and placentas, raising concerns about long-term health effects. While the full implications are still being studied, early research suggests links to inflammation, immune responses, and potential hormonal disruption.
Sources of Microplastics: The IUCN Model
Understanding where microplastics come from is key to tackling the issue. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the primary sources of microplastics include:
1. Textile Microfibres:
- Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic shed tiny fibres during washing. These microfibres are a major contributor to microplastic pollution, with up to 700,000 fibres released in a single load of laundry.
- Microfibres make up 35% of primary microplastic pollution globally.
2. Tyre Wear
- As tyres wear down on roads, they release tiny particles into the environment. These are washed into waterways by rain and eventually reach the oceans. Tyre wear accounts for 28% of primary microplastic pollution.
3. Paints
- Paint flakes from ships, buildings, and road markings contribute 10% of microplastics.
4. Personal Care Products
- Microbeads, once common in exfoliating scrubs and toothpastes, have been banned in many countries but still contribute to pollution in regions where they are not regulated.
5. Other Sources
- This includes plastic pellets used in manufacturing and the degradation of larger plastics into microplastics.
For more information on textile microfibres and what you can do to help, visit Cleaner Seas’ dedicated microfibres page.
The Bigger Picture
Microplastics are a stark reminder of the broader plastic pollution crisis. Every action we take to reduce plastic use, improve waste management, and innovate sustainable solutions can help turn the tide. By staying informed and making conscious choices, we can protect our oceans and ensure a cleaner, healthier planet for generations to come.
Together, we can make a difference – starting with understanding the problem and taking steps to solve it.
