Reducing Microplastic Pollution: Small Steps, Big Impact

Microplastics are plastic pieces that measure less than 5mm and are found everywhere, from the Arctic to the food on our plates and the water we drink. They are one of the greatest manmade disasters of our time and pose a risk to humans in three ways: physical, chemical, and as a host for other microorganisms to breed on. While the exact health risks are still being determined, the urgency to reduce microplastic pollution is clear. Here are some ways to tackle this issue:

Stop buying bottled water

One of the easiest ways to reduce microplastic pollution is to stop buying bottled water.

Disposable plastic bottles are incredibly wasteful and harmful to the environment. In fact, 80% of plastic water bottles are not recycled and end up in landfills, rivers, and oceans. Over time, these bottles break down into microplastics, which can invade every level of the food chain and be extremely harmful to marine life. Even when recycled, the process of manufacturing and distributing plastic water bottles creates a significant amount of air pollution.

By refusing to buy bottled water, you can significantly reduce your plastic waste and lower pollution. Instead, opt for a reusable water bottle, preferably made from stainless steel, which will keep your drinks cold and fresh for hours. Carrying a reusable bottle with you when you're out and about is a simple and eco-friendly habit that can save you hundreds of dollars a year.

In addition to reducing plastic waste, there are other benefits to avoiding bottled water. It is more cost-effective to drink filtered tap water, as bottled water is often just treated tap water, which you can do yourself at home. By refilling your own bottle, you also avoid the risk of consuming chemicals that can leach into the water from plastic bottles over time.

Making the switch to a reusable water bottle is an easy and effective step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. It is a small change that can have a significant impact on reducing plastic pollution and creating a better future for our planet.

Boycott microbeads

Microbeads are tiny plastic particles, measuring less than 5mm in diameter, that are added to cosmetic products such as face scrubs, toothpastes, and body washes. They are too small to be captured by water treatment systems, so they slip through and enter our waterways, causing plastic pollution.

Microbeads are a significant source of ocean plastic pollution. They are designed to be washed down the drain, but due to their small size, they often pass through waste-water treatment plants and end up in the seas. They do not degrade over time and can remain in the environment for hundreds of years. This contributes to the growing problem of plastic pollution, which is one of the greatest threats to ocean health worldwide.

Once in the water, microbeads absorb toxins and are then ingested by marine animals, causing indigestion issues and sometimes even death. They can also enter the human food chain when we eat seafood.

• Avoid products containing microbeads: Check the ingredient labels of your cosmetic products and avoid those that list "polyethylene" or "polypropylene." Look for natural alternatives that use ingredients like jojoba beads, salt, coffee, whole oats, or rosehip seeds for exfoliation instead.
• Support legislation and campaigns against microbeads: Advocate for a complete ban on the use and sale of products containing microbeads. Put pressure on your local, state, and federal governments to take action and address the issue of plastic pollution.
• Spread awareness: Educate your friends and family about the harmful effects of microbeads and encourage them to make more informed choices when purchasing cosmetic products.

By boycotting microbeads and supporting alternative, natural products, you can help reduce microplastic pollution and protect our marine ecosystems.

Buy non-synthetic, eco-friendly clothing

Synthetic clothing is a major contributor to microplastic pollution. When washed, synthetic clothing sheds microfibres that are released into rivers and oceans. These microfibres are ingested by marine organisms and can cause blockages in their guts.

To reduce microplastic pollution, consumers should consider buying non-synthetic, eco-friendly clothing made from natural fibres such as organic cotton, wool, or linen. These fabrics are easy to find and do not contain synthetic microfibres that are shed during washing.

While natural fibres can also shed microfibres as a result of wear and tear, synthetic fabrics tend to release the highest amounts of microplastics in the first 5-10 washes. Therefore, consumers can also reduce microplastic pollution by buying second-hand clothing. Older clothing has already been washed several times and is likely to shed fewer microfibres.

Additionally, consumers can support clothing companies that implement sustainable design and production processes to minimise microplastic emissions. For example, pre-washing clothing at manufacturing plants can capture a large number of microfibres before they are released into the environment.

By choosing non-synthetic, eco-friendly clothing, consumers can play a crucial role in reducing microplastic pollution and protecting marine ecosystems and human health.

Reduce meat and fish consumption

Overview

The production of meat and fish is a significant contributor to microplastic pollution. Meat production relies on large amounts of plastic, from equipment used in farming to packaging for distribution. Fish are also affected by microplastics, as they ingest plastic debris in the ocean, which can then be passed on to humans who consume them. Therefore, reducing meat and fish consumption can help to lower microplastic pollution.

Meat production

Meat production is a major contributor to plastic pollution, as the industry relies heavily on plastic equipment and packaging. Plastic is used in various stages of meat production, from farming to packaging and distribution. For example, plastic is used in equipment such as feed buckets, water bowls, and ear tags for livestock. It is also used for packaging meat products, such as cling film, trays, and vacuum packs. Single-use plastic items, such as plastic bags, straws, and utensils, are commonly used in the meat industry and contribute to plastic waste.

Fish consumption

Fish are also affected by microplastics, as they ingest plastic debris in the ocean. Plastic debris, such as microfibers from synthetic textiles, can be ingested by fish and accumulate in their digestive systems. These microplastics can then be passed on to humans who consume fish, potentially posing health risks. Additionally, the fishing industry contributes to plastic pollution through the use of plastic equipment and gear, such as fishing lines, nets, and ropes.

Strategies to reduce meat and fish consumption

• Choose alternative proteins: Consider incorporating more plant-based proteins, such as beans, lentils, and tofu, into your diet. These alternatives often have lower environmental impacts and can help reduce plastic pollution.
• Reduce portion sizes: If you choose to eat meat or fish, consider reducing your portion sizes. Opt for smaller servings or share larger portions with others. This can help reduce the amount of plastic waste generated.
• Support sustainable practices: When purchasing meat or fish, look for products that are sustainably sourced and packaged responsibly. Choose locally sourced options whenever possible to reduce the need for extensive packaging and transportation.
• Reduce waste: Aim to reduce food waste by planning meals, storing food properly, and composting food scraps when possible. This can help reduce the amount of plastic waste generated in the meat and fishing industries.

Support legislation to curb plastic production

While individual behavioural changes are important, they are not enough to tackle the microplastic pollution problem. Supporting legislation to curb plastic production is crucial.

At the international level, a global treaty on plastics is being negotiated, with the aim of reducing plastic pollution and its contribution to climate change. This treaty is expected to set global rules and regulations, with a particular focus on reducing plastic production and the associated greenhouse gas emissions.

In the United States, experts have recommended new federal legislation to curb the use of throwaway plastics. The proposed legislation includes banning common single-use plastic items, such as bags, straws, and expanded polystyrene foam food containers. Additionally, establishing "extended producer responsibility" schemes has been suggested, making plastic manufacturers responsible for the waste they create. For example, the Protecting Communities from Plastics Act, introduced by US lawmakers, aims to reduce the country's overreliance on single-use plastics and establish stricter rules for petrochemical plants to safeguard human health.

At the state level in the US, there are also initiatives to introduce extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation, making plastic producers and distributors accountable for their products' end-of-life management. For instance, California proposed a phase-out of all plastic products that are not completely recyclable.

Similarly, in Suffolk County, New York, a five-cent fee on plastic bags led to an 80% reduction in their use within a few weeks. Other successful stories of plastic bag legislation include Washington, D.C., and San Francisco, which saw significant decreases in plastic bag pollution after implementing taxes or bans.

To further reduce plastic pollution, some states and municipalities have also banned plastic straws, plastic foodware, and expanded polystyrene foam containers.

While these local and national efforts are important, a comprehensive global approach is needed to address the plastic pollution crisis effectively.

Frequently asked questions