Reducing Microplastic Pollution: Strategies For A Cleaner Future

Microplastics are everywhere, but there are many ways to reduce your exposure to them and minimise your own microplastic pollution. Car tyres are a major source of microplastics, making up 28% of the microplastics found in the ocean. Synthetic clothing, such as polyester, is another huge contributor. However, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce your impact, such as choosing eco-friendlier clothing made from natural materials, or using public transport, walking, or cycling to reduce tyre erosion.

Choose eco-friendly clothing made from natural materials

Synthetic clothing, such as polyester, is a huge contributor to microplastics. When synthetic clothing is washed, it releases microfibres into the water, which are then released into the environment. To reduce the amount of microplastics in the environment, it is important to choose clothing made from natural materials, such as cotton, silk, wool, and hemp. These natural materials produce larger microfibres than synthetic materials, which means they are less likely to be ingested by animals and make their way up the food chain.

When choosing clothing made from natural materials, it is important to consider the environmental impact of the production process. For example, cotton production can be water-intensive and may involve the use of pesticides. However, organic cotton is produced without the use of pesticides and uses less water, making it a more sustainable option.

Silk is another natural material that is often touted as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fabrics. Silk is a natural protein fibre produced by insects, most commonly the mulberry silkworm. The production of silk does not require the use of pesticides or other chemicals, and the worms can be raised on organic diets. However, it is important to note that the process of extracting silk fibres from the cocoons is labour-intensive and may involve the use of harmful chemicals if not done properly.

Wool is a natural fibre that is known for its warmth and durability. Wool is a renewable resource, as it can be shorn from sheep without causing them harm. Additionally, wool is biodegradable and can be recycled, making it a more sustainable option than synthetic fibres. However, it is important to consider the environmental impact of sheep farming, which can contribute to land degradation and greenhouse gas emissions.

Hemp is a natural fibre that is known for its durability and breathability. Hemp is a fast-growing crop that requires minimal water and pesticides, making it a more sustainable option than cotton or synthetic fibres. Additionally, hemp is naturally resistant to mould and UV light, which can extend the lifespan of clothing made from hemp fibres.

Support organisations and politicians fighting against microplastics

While there are many ways to reduce microplastic pollution, one of the most important is to support organisations and politicians fighting against microplastics.

One way to do this is to vote for politicians who prioritise the health of their citizens and address the plastic and microplastic pollution crises. You can also support measures that aim to reduce the amount of plastics and microplastics globally. Additionally, you can volunteer or donate to organisations and charities working to combat microplastics in the environment, such as the Plastic Soup Foundation, which aims to stop plastic from entering the water supply.

Another way to support the fight against microplastics is to advocate for better compliance with nurdle discharge prohibitions and stormwater infiltration projects, which can immediately reduce microplastics. This requires leadership from industries such as textiles and tire manufacturers to produce consumer products that do not contribute to the problem. Car tires, for example, are a major source of microplastics, accounting for 28% of microplastics in the ocean. By choosing public transportation, walking, or biking instead of driving, you can help reduce tire erosion and plastic pollution.

Finally, you can support organisations working to promote eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to synthetic clothing, as synthetic fibres are a significant contributor to microplastic pollution. Natural fibres like cotton, silk, wool, and hemp produce larger microfibres that are less likely to break down into microplastics.

Avoid using your car

Car tires are a major source of microplastics, making up 28% of the microplastics found in the ocean. The tires break down when driving, sending tiny particles into the environment. To reduce this type of tire erosion and plastic pollution, you can avoid using your car. This will not only reduce the number of tires releasing microplastics but also decrease traffic congestion and improve air quality.

There are several alternatives to driving your car that can help reduce microplastic pollution. One option is to use public transportation, such as buses or trains. By choosing public transportation, you are taking one less car off the road, which can make a significant impact on reducing tire erosion and the release of microplastics. Additionally, public transportation often has designated lanes or routes, allowing for more efficient travel and reduced travel time compared to driving in congested areas.

Another alternative to driving is to opt for active transportation, such as walking or bicycling. Not only does this reduce microplastic pollution, but it also provides health benefits by incorporating physical activity into your daily routine. Walking or bicycling can be especially convenient for shorter distances or when travelling within your local community. If the distance is too far to walk or cycle, you could consider using a scooter or other personal transportation devices, which are often compact and easy to carry or store.

You can also consider carpooling or ride-sharing as a way to reduce the number of cars on the road. By sharing rides with colleagues, friends, or neighbours, you can decrease the overall number of vehicles travelling, which in turn reduces tire erosion and microplastic pollution. Carpooling can also help save money on fuel costs and reduce traffic congestion, making it a more economical and environmentally friendly option.

By avoiding the use of your car, you can play a crucial role in reducing microplastic pollution from tire erosion. This simple change in your daily routine can have a significant impact on the environment and contribute to a healthier planet for all. Remember, even if you cannot completely eliminate car usage, any reduction in driving will help mitigate the problem of microplastic pollution.

Don't eat shellfish

You might be surprised to learn that microplastics are everywhere, including in the food we eat. Shellfish, in particular, are known to contain high levels of microplastics due to their filter-feeding habits. These tiny plastic particles can accumulate in their tissues and eventually make their way up the food chain, potentially causing harm to human health.

One way to reduce your exposure to microplastics is to avoid consuming shellfish. While shellfish are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, they can also harbour high levels of microplastics, especially if they are sourced from polluted waters. By choosing alternative sources of protein, such as plant-based options or fish with lower microplastic contamination, you can reduce your intake of these harmful particles.

Additionally, you can take proactive steps to reduce microplastic pollution and its impact on the environment. For example, opting for sustainable and eco-friendly clothing made from natural materials like cotton, silk, or wool can help minimise the release of microfibres during washing. These natural fibres tend to produce larger microfibres that are less likely to be ingested by marine life, including shellfish.

Another way to contribute to the reduction of microplastics is to support organisations and charities dedicated to fighting this issue. By volunteering or donating to these causes, you can help raise awareness and fund initiatives aimed at reducing microplastic pollution. This includes supporting politicians and measures that prioritise the reduction of plastics and microplastics on a global scale.

Finally, it's important to be mindful of your transportation choices. Car tyres are a significant source of microplastics, accounting for 28% of microplastics found in the ocean. By choosing public transportation, walking, or using a bicycle or scooter, you can reduce tyre erosion and the release of microplastics into the environment. These simple actions can collectively make a significant impact in reducing microplastic pollution and protecting both the environment and human health.

Opt for natural alternatives to microbeads in cosmetics and household products

Microplastics are everywhere, but there are some actions we can take to reduce our exposure to them and minimise our own microplastic pollution. One way to do this is to opt for natural alternatives to microbeads in cosmetics and household products.

Microbeads are tiny plastic particles that are often used in cosmetics and household products such as face scrubs, toothpastes, and cleaning products. They are used to provide exfoliating or abrasive properties to these products. However, when these products are washed down the drain, the microbeads can pass through water treatment plants and end up in our oceans and other water bodies. Once in the environment, they can be ingested by marine life, leading to health issues and even death.

Natural alternatives to microbeads include ground-up nuts, seeds, or fruit pits, which can provide the same exfoliating properties without the environmental harm. For example, you can use ground coffee or sugar as a natural alternative to microbeads in face scrubs. There are also natural loofahs and sponges that can be used for exfoliation. In household cleaning products, you can use natural alternatives such as baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice for cleaning and scrubbing.

Another way to reduce microplastic pollution is to choose eco-friendly and sustainable clothing made from organic materials such as cotton, silk, wool, or hemp. Synthetic clothing, such as polyester, is a significant contributor to microplastic pollution as the tiny plastic fibres can shed during washing and end up in our waterways. By choosing natural fibres, you can help reduce the amount of microplastics entering the environment.

Finally, car tires are a major source of microplastics, as they break down when driving and release tiny particles into the environment. To reduce this type of tire erosion and plastic pollution, consider taking public transportation, walking, bicycling, or using a scooter or other personal transportation options. By taking one less car off the road, you can help reduce the amount of microplastics released into the environment.

Frequently asked questions