Microplastics, tiny plastic pieces less than 5 mm in size, are a significant environmental issue. They are found in oceans, soil, drinking water, food, and even the air.
• Sources: The largest contributors to microplastic pollution are synthetic textiles (35%), tires (28%), city dust (24%), and road markings (7%).
• Types: Microplastics enter the environment as:
• Primary Microplastics: Released directly at a microscopic size (e.g., fibers from synthetic fabrics, rubber dust from tires, and plastic pellets).
• Secondary Microplastics: Formed from the breakdown of larger plastic items due to environmental factors.
• Environmental Impact: An estimated 21 million tonnes of primary microplastics are in various environments, posing threats to ecosystems.
• Solutions: Addressing the issue requires both technological advancements, like microfiber filters for washing machines, and changes in behavior towards materials used.
Understanding where microplastics come from is essential for effective solutions. The problem extends beyond commonly mentioned items like straws and bags, highlighting a broader pollution challenge.
https://www.zerohedge.com/medical/where-do-microplastics-come-anyway
No comments:
Post a Comment