Human dependency on plastics has deteriorating implications for the ecosystem and human health.
Microplastics are small plastic particles of less than 5 mm formed as a result of improper disposal and recycling of large plastics, hence they transform into smaller and smaller pieces. Besides, they contain impurities and do not biodegrade once they become a part of the environment. The abundance of microplastics is found in marine and freshwater ecosystems. In addition to that, seafood is a significant source of microplastics in humans, based on its consumption.
A global study of 109 countries including Pakistan reported that 57% of plastic pollution in food is mainly water-based. Furthermore, another study revealed that per capita dietary intake of microplastic is 31 mm per day in Pakistan.
Microplastics have serious health concerns in the form of cancers, reproductive and development issues, and increasing heart disease risks.
Microplastics were also found in human breast milk and an infant’s first stool meconium.
What’s more? environmental concerns are also there such as disruption of marine life, food chain, and ecosystems.
Various consumer products contain microplastics as their ingredients:
- Paints
- Fertilizers
- Cosmetics
- Detergents
- Plant protection products
- Products used in the oil and gas industry
Their function in consumer products can be from an exfoliating, and polishing agent to being just a glitter in makeup!
European Chemical Agency has proposed wide-ranging restrictions on products containing microplastics. It has set a target to reduce 500,000 tonnes of microplastic release in 20 years.
Although Pakistan ranks among the lowest countries affected by microplastics, our Government is committed to sustainable development to tackle plastic pollution and its hazardous effects.
Source:
- (https://echa.europa.eu/hot-topics/microplastics)
- (http://fortune.com/well/article/microplastics-health-effects/)
- (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9920460/#:~:text=Exposure%20to%20microplastics%20can%20also,urgent%20action%20is%20not%20taken.)
- (https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/discover/are-microplastics-a-big-problem)
- (https://ecocycle.org/our-programs/reducing-plastics/microplastics/)
- (https://magazine.hms.harvard.edu/articles/microplastics-everywhere#:~:text=Studies%20in%20cell%20cultures%2C%20marine,%2C%20reproductive%2C%20and%20other%20systems.)
- (https://www.app.com.pk/national/tackling-microplastic-pollution-national-priority-for-protecting-public-health-environment-romina/)
Human dependency on plastics has deteriorating implications for the ecosystem and human health.
