Recently, a lot of media coverage has been given to the tonnes of plastic that are currently floating about in the world’s oceans. However, it might be argued that the damage posed by plastic pollution to plants, animals, and people is greater. The amount of plastic that is recycled or burned in waste-to-energy facilities each day is rather small. A large portion of it is disposed of in landfills, where it might take up to a thousand years to decompose and release potentially harmful materials into the soil and water.
You might have also heard about “microplastics” and how largely they affect the ecology and even human beings. So, what are these microplastics? Smaller fragments of any sort of plastic are known as microplastics. They are plastic particles up to 5mm in size. There are several sources from which these tiny particles enter the natural ecosystem.
According to several studies, there are two types of microplastics; primary and secondary microplastics. Primary microplastics can be found in the oceans. The degradation of plastics results in the production of secondary microplastics. Fishing nets, bottles, and plastic bottles all fall under the category of larger plastics. As per several studies, oceans are home to about 80 per cent of secondary microplastic.
Microplastics pose a threat to both marine and terrestrial life. It contains artificial compounds, including BPA and phthalates, among others. According to studies, microplastics have harmed marine species like fish, turtles, crabs, seabirds, etc. These aquatic creatures consume microplastics present in the ocean.
When microplastics enter an animal’s body, the digestive tract becomes blocked. This situation causes them to starve to death. Microplastics in the body also affect growth and the reproductive system. Cells and tissues in a developing body are negatively impacted by microplastics. According to another study, microplastics cause respiratory and other health problems by inhaling them into the body.
So, what can be done to reduce its impact on our environment and living beings? Recycling plastic garbage is advised in order to prevent its degradation. Plastic alternatives should be used instead of traditional plastics. Conventional plastic can be replaced with biodegradable plastic. It is also advisable not to litter beaches, water bodies, soil, air, etc. with plastic material. Always keep in mind that you are the first step towards change, and take every opportunity to conserve the environment’s fauna and flora. Strive towards making a better and safer environment for the future generation.