In the early 1900s, plastic emerged as a revolutionary material that transformed our lives. Fast forward to today, and we face global plastic pollution. Millions of tons of plastic waste find their way into our oceans and freshwater ecosystems each year, threatening both humans and wildlife. Plastic pollution is most concerning for microplastics, tiny particles measuring less than 5 mm. These microplastics, whether intentionally produced at this size or generated by the breakdown of larger plastic items, have become pervasive in our food, water, and environment.

The presence of Microplastics in Drinking Water

Studies have reported varying microplastic concentrations in both fresh and drinking-water sources. In fresh water, counts range from 0 to 1000 particles per liter, while in drinking-water, the numbers can range from 0 to 10,000 particles per lite.

Microplastics can infiltrate drinking water from various sources, including surface run-off following rain events, wastewater effluent (both treated and untreated), combined sewer overflows, industrial effluent, degraded plastic waste, and atmospheric deposition.

Among these sources, surface run-off and wastewater effluent stand out as the primary culprits, although more specific data are needed to pinpoint their contributions.

Even plastic bottles and caps used in bottled water may introduce microplastics into our drinking supply.

Americans alone use a mind-boggling 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour, and on a global scale, 10 billion plastic bags are used every week (University of Tennessee).

Microplastics Pollution Concerns

Heavy Metal and Pollutant Attraction: Perhaps an even greater concern is their ability to attract and concentrate heavy metals and organic pollutants dissolved in the water, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Despite being banned, PCBs persist globally in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Plastic debris accumulates these pollutants at levels 100,000 to 1,000,000 times higher than seawater, as reported by NOAA.

Microplastics in our Diet

Microplastics have entered our food chain. They are present in both tap water and bottled water. According to research conducted by Sherri Mason, a Penn State researcher, a study revealed that a liter of bottled water contains an average of 325 plastic particles, compared to 5.5 plastic particles per liter of tap water.

Microplastics in Human Tissues

Early data suggests that these tiny particles, especially those in the lower micron and sub-micron size range, can breach critical barriers within the human body.

They can traverse the lungs, gut, and even the blood-brain barrier. Notably, microplastics have been discovered in human feces and tissues, including the brain and placenta.

Their potential to cause physical, chemical, and microbiological toxicity raises concerns about oxidative stress, cellular damage, inflammatory and immune responses, neurotoxicity, and even metabolic changes. Research links plastic chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenols, to obesity and diabetes, which is caused by inflammation and hormone disruption.

How microplastics cause inflammation in the body

A 2023 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that microplastics can infiltrate cells within 24 hours of exposure.

The study examined various tissues, including the brain, liver, kidney, gastrointestinal tract, heart, spleen, and lungs. It revealed that microplastics were present in all tissues examined.

When microplastics enter the body, immune cells recognize them as foreign invaders, leading to an inflammatory response. Microplastic exposure can cause chronic inflammation.

Taking Action Against Microplastic Pollution

Microplastics in the environment are likely to increase alongside plastic production. While the situation may seem daunting, there are practical steps we can take to combat this growing problem:

• Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Minimize single-use plastic use in your daily life. Instead, use copper bottles.
• Use Reusable Containers: Switch to reusable water bottles, coffee mugs, and food containers.
• Say No to Plastic Straws and Lids: When dining out, decline plastic straws and lids, and consider using a reusable straw.
• Select Organically Raised Meat: Because microplastics are often found in animal feed, choosing organically raised meat can reduce exposure to these particles.
• Effective Water Filtration: Install an efficient water filtration system, such as the Alkaline water ionizer to remove microplastics from drinking water.

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