Student Article
Everything You Need to Know About Microplastics
Degradation (noun): The process by which something breaks down or deteriorates.
Mitigation (noun): The action of reducing the severity or seriousness of something.
An in-depth look at microplastics: their origins, environmental impact, and the challenges they pose to human health.
What are microplastics?
Microplastics are plastic fragments less than 0.2 inches (5 millimeters) in size. They are categorized as primary (manufactured at a small size) or secondary (resulting from the degradation of larger plastics).
Where are they found?
These particles have been found globally, from ocean depths to remote mountains, indicating their pervasive nature. They contaminate water, soil, and air, entering ecosystems and food chains.
Why are they a problem?
Marine organisms ingest microplastics, leading to physical harm and chemical exposure. In humans, microplastics have been detected in various tissues, but the long-term health effects remain under investigation.
What can we do?
Addressing microplastic pollution requires a multifaceted approach: reducing plastic production, enhancing waste management, and promoting public awareness. Policy interventions and individual actions both play crucial roles.
© Leoma Williams / Our Media
Degradation (noun): The process by which something breaks down or deteriorates.
Mitigation (noun): The action of reducing the severity or seriousness of something.