All materials break down over time including plastics. Rather than breaking down into biodegradable matter, plastics break down into long-lingering fragments called micro-plastics. These can be shed from: plastic waste weathered by the elements, washing clothes, glitter, cosmetics, carpets, paint, furniture, and even your car tires. Our environment is therefore flooded with micro-plastics. They are found in several different foods including fish and seafood, table salt, beer, honey and sugar, and tap water. Consequently we ingest a credit card’s worth of plastic every week.
It should be no surprise that micro-plastics are being found in human blood, organs and tissue. Initial research shows they directly impact respiratory, reproductive, cognitive functions and cause inflammation throughout the body. Clearly, we need to make significant changes to contain micro-plastic contamination.
HERE ARE 12 TIPS for limiting microplastics in the environment and in your body:
1. Use reusable natural fiber shopping bags rather than plastic or synthetic fiber ones
2. Buy organic clothes free from synthetic polymers and plastics
3. Make the most of plastic free cosmetics like reusable makeup wipes
4. Swap your shower gels and shampoos for plastic free, sustainable bars
5. Use eco-friendly alternatives to clingfilm and don’t microwave food in plastic
6. Air dry your clothes
7. Buy fruit and veg in home-compostable, recyclable paper or reusable fabric bags
8. Get bread and pastries in paper bags (and put an end to single-use plastic containers!)
9. Carry a reusable water bottle and coffee cup with you to avoid takeaway cups
10. Store food in plastic free containers (like ones made of glass or metal)
11. Use micro-fiber filters and laundry bags to prevent microplastics from entering wastewater
12. Dispose of plastic recycling correctly. This can vary by location so check the recycling rules in your area.
