Microplastics - what they are, why they are dangerous and how we can avoid them

What is microplastic and why is it a problem?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are either produced intentionally or result from the decomposition of larger plastic products. Primary microplastics are produced specifically for cosmetics or cleaning products, for example as exfoliating particles in shower gels or as abrasives in toothpastes. Secondary microplastics, on the other hand, are created when larger plastic items such as packaging, bottles or bags break down into smaller and smaller fragments due to sunlight, wind and waves.

The amount of plastic that has accumulated in the environment over the decades is alarming: since the 1950s, over nine billion tons of plastic have been produced worldwide, much of which has ended up in nature. This plastic waste degrades extremely slowly – the majority remains in the soil, water and air for centuries in the form of microplastics.

How do microplastics get into the environment?

There are many ways in which microplastics end up in the environment. A large proportion comes from cosmetics and care products in which the small particles are used as a functional component. When showering or brushing teeth, they end up in wastewater in sewage treatment plants, which are often unable to completely filter out the tiny particles.

Synthetic clothing is another major problem. Tiny fibers are released from materials such as polyester, nylon or acrylic with every wash. These microfiber particles are so small that they easily end up in wastewater and are washed into rivers or oceans. Studies show that a single wash load can release up to 700,000 fibers.

The abrasion of car tires is also a significant source of microplastics. Driving produces tiny particles that are dispersed in the air or end up in bodies of water through rain. In addition, improperly disposed plastic waste contributes to more and more plastic particles being released into the environment. Over time, this waste breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces due to the effects of the weather.

The journey of microplastics – from the environment to our plates

The effects of microplastic pollution are not just limited to the environment. As soon as microplastics end up in water, they are ingested by fish, mussels and other animals that mistake them for food. These animals in turn end up on our plates and bring the plastic particles into the human food chain. But microplastics are not only found in seafood: studies have shown that drinking water, honey and even salt are often contaminated with microplastics.

A worrying study has revealed that people ingest up to five grams of microplastics per week – the equivalent weight of a credit card. Microplastics can now also be detected in human blood, which shows how widespread the problem already is.

What dangers do microplastics pose to the environment and health?

The effects of microplastics are serious. In the environment, microplastics are often eaten by animals that mistake them for food. This can block their digestive system, cause hunger and even lead to death. At the same time, microplastics also damage important microorganisms in bodies of water, which changes ecosystems in the long term.

Microplastics also pose risks to humans. The tiny particles are often contaminated with harmful substances such as plasticizers or flame retardants, which are suspected of being carcinogenic or hormonally active. Although the exact health effects of microplastics on humans are still being researched, there are indications that they can cause inflammation or tissue damage.

In addition to the ecological and health consequences, microplastic pollution also has an economic impact. Polluted waters and the decline in fish stocks harm fishing and tourism. At the same time, the cost of purifying drinking water is rising, as complex filter technologies are required to remove microplastics.

How can we avoid microplastics?

Even though microplastics are a global problem, we can help to reduce pollution by making conscious decisions in our everyday lives:

• Cosmetic products without microplastics: Look out for ingredients such as “polyethylene (PE)”, “polypropylene (PP)” or “polystyrene (PS)”, which indicate the presence of microplastics. Use certified natural cosmetics.
• Avoid synthetic fibers: Buy clothes made from natural materials such as cotton or linen. Special washing bags can help to trap microfibers during washing.
• Reduce plastic consumption: Avoid single-use plastic, use reusable products and recycle correctly.
• Be aware of tire wear: Avoid driving unnecessarily and make sure your tires are serviced regularly.

New technologies in the fight against microplastics

Innovative technologies play a key role in reducing microplastics. Wastewater treatment plants are increasingly relying on finer filter systems to remove plastic particles from wastewater. At the same time, start-ups are developing biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastic, for example from algae or fungi.

At everwave, we collect waste and plastic in waterways with our waste collection boats and prevent it from entering the oceans and causing damage there. However, such measures are only part of the solution – it is also crucial that less plastic is put into circulation and that it is recycled better.

Everyone can make a contribution in their everyday lives, whether by avoiding microplastics in cosmetics, choosing sustainable clothing or supporting projects such as those that develop innovative solutions to reduce plastic. By consuming and acting more consciously, we can help reduce microplastic pollution and create a cleaner, more sustainable future.