Microplastics are tiny and not visible to us. In 2004 they were identified and named by Professor Richard Thompson, a marine biologist in the U.K. Since that time microplastics, tiny plastic particles have been found in our food, water, air, and bodies.
Microplastics are plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size. Microplastics were purposely created in body washes and face scrubs, and advertised as microbeads. They are also formed from the breakdown of plastic packaging. Other sources are synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon. Packaged foods and drinks, toothpaste, personal care products, tap and bottled water, dust, and household air all contain microplastics. Basically they are everywhere and they don’t biodegrade, which can cause health issues.
Our environment is also affected by microplastics. You think recycling helps? Only 5% of plastic in the U.S. is recycled. The rest breaks apart and seeps into our waterways, oceans, and soil. Animals eat it and move it up the food chain and back to us. Clearly we will have to live with microplastics, however, I want to share with you a few ways to cutdown on exposure to them.
When it comes to clothing choose natural fiber clothing. When polyester and nylon are washed they shed microfibers. Look for organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo clothing when possible. Another option is to wash synthetic clothing with a micro-fiber catching laundry bag or install a filter on your washing machine.
Add filters in your home to reduce exposure to microplastics. Air purifiers with high filters can help catch microplastics in the air of your home. A high-quality water filter helps to remove microplastic particles from tap water. Stop using plastic water bottles, add filtered water to glass water bottles.
Avoid plastic containers when shopping for food. As well stop microwaving anything in plastic. Heat causes microfibers to leak into your food. Look for items packaged in cardboard, glass, or aluminum instead of plastic.
What are you cleaning with? Many cleaners contain synthetic polymers or other ingredients that are bad for your health and leave microplastics behind. Look for cleaning products that come in aluminum or glass containers, that can be recycled, refilled and reused, or carboard packaging.
When it comes to personal care products avoid those with microbeads and synthetic ingredients. Look for plastic free packaging or items in recyclable material such as glass or aluminum. Also use toothpaste and shampoo bars that don’t come in plastic packaging or bottles.
When shopping look for products that are not packaged in heavy plastic containers. Look for non-plastic alternatives. Microplastics are here to stay but choosing products that are not in plastic containers, will help. Buying refills, adding filters to your laundry, and home can make a difference for your health and our planet. Are you ready to make a healthy choice?
Until next time,
Peace, Love, and Blessings❤️
