Activity 3.3.3 - My Plastic Use

 Definition of Microplastics

Microplastics are defined as small plastic particles or fibers less than 5 millimeters in size. These particles are derived from petroleum-based products and are not biodegradable. Microplastics can either be primary, meaning they are intentionally manufactured at small sizes for products like exfoliating scrubs, or secondary, which are formed when larger plastic objects degrade over time due to environmental factors such as UV radiation or oceanic currents.

Where Microplastics Are Found

Microplastics are prevalent across a variety of environments, with the majority being concentrated in aquatic ecosystems. They are found in oceans, rivers, lakes, and even in wastewater treatment plants. Marine environments, such as beaches and shorelines, are common places where visible plastic waste accumulates. Plastic waste, however, isn’t confined to coastlines—it is also detected in freshwater systems, agricultural soils, and even in the air we breathe. Plastic particles have been discovered in places as remote as the Arctic and as high up as the atmosphere, showing their far-reaching nature.

How Microplastics Get There

The pathways through which microplastics enter the environment are numerous. In many cases, microplastics originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as plastic bags, bottles, and packaging materials, which are improperly discarded. As these plastics degrade, they fragment into smaller particles, which enter water bodies through runoff, wind, and weathering. Additionally, primary microplastics, such as the microbeads used in cosmetics and personal care products, are often washed down drains, where they enter wastewater systems.

Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to capture these microscopic particles, and many microplastics pass through the filtration processes and end up in rivers and oceans. Stormwater drainage systems also contribute to this issue, as plastic litter is washed from streets into sewers, eventually making its way into aquatic environments. Other contributors include synthetic fibers from clothing, which shed during washing, and plastic particles from tire wear, which are carried by rain into drainage systems. In the air, microplastics are introduced through abrasion of plastic materials and can travel significant distances through atmospheric transport.

Why Microplastics Are Problematic to Humans and the Environment

Microplastics pose a significant threat to both the environment and human health. In marine ecosystems, microplastics are particularly dangerous to aquatic organisms. Small particles are often mistaken for food by fish, birds, and marine mammals. For example, sea turtles are known to confuse plastic bags with jellyfish, their primary food source. When ingested, these plastics can lead to choking, internal injury, or starvation, as the animals' digestive systems become blocked.

Microplastics have also been found to act as carriers for toxic chemicals. These particles can absorb harmful substances, such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which then enter the food chain when consumed by marine life. Over time, these toxins accumulate in higher organisms, including humans, who consume seafood that has been exposed to microplastics. This process of bioaccumulation is particularly concerning because it may lead to long-term health effects, including hormonal disruptions, reproductive issues, and even cancer.

For humans, microplastics are not only ingested through seafood but are also present in drinking water and even in the air we breathe. Studies have shown that microplastic particles are found in both bottled and tap water, as well as in airborne dust. When inhaled, these tiny particles can cause respiratory issues, and when ingested, they may lead to gastrointestinal problems or other internal injuries. Some microplastics are small enough to pass through the body's tissues, posing unknown risks to long-term health.

The environmental impact of microplastics extends beyond just wildlife. Once microplastics enter ecosystems, they persist for long periods of time due to their non-biodegradable nature. They can disrupt soil health, affecting plant growth and agricultural productivity. In water bodies, microplastics contribute to the overall degradation of water quality, affecting not just marine life but the livelihoods of communities that depend on these water sources for fishing, agriculture, and tourism.

This represents the different ways I use plastic in my daily life. This past Thursday, I used a variation of plastic. We can start in the morning before my morning class. I had to get ready in my car to secure a parking spot (I did, lol). Many of the products I used, the packaging of their products contained plastic. For example, the wand of my e.l.f Hydrating Concealer is made of plastic. It is not specified what type of plastic it is, but it is common for many brands to use polypropylene (P.P.) or polyethylene (P.E.) for the handles. These plastics are not only lightweight but also durable, making them ideal for daily use in cosmetics.

One of my classmates and I shared a bag of Grandma's Cookies in my afternoon class. Now, funny enough, combine P.P. and P.E., and you will have their bags. The convenience of plastic packaging allows us to enjoy these treats easily, but it also raises questions about sustainability. Later in the day, I had a nail appointment. I was unsure what type of plastic they used for nail tips until today when my nail tech's tips were made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (A.B.S). This material is known for its strength and flexibility, making it perfect for nail art and designs.

To finish off the day, after my sister's volleyball game, our friends and I went to my job to have some dinner. Since our food order was a lot, our drinks came out first. They were in Sunset Clear Cups, made out of polyethylene terephthalate (P.E.T); fun fact is that they are recyclable. Our food trays were made of polypropylene (P.P.), commonly used in food service due to its moisture resistance. I use these products very regularly, and it is good to be knowledgeable about a variety of topics. Understanding the types of plastic we interact with daily can help us make more informed choices and encourage sustainable practices in our everyday lives.