Many people may think that microplastics are only in the ocean or plastic water bottles. But in fact, it can be around us in unexpected ways. Let’s learn about its secret sources in our daily lives and the impacts we should know.
What are microplastics ?
Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic (less than 5 millimeters) that are created by the degradation of larger plastics or are made to be small in the first place, เล่น UFABET ผ่านมือถือ สะดวกทุกที่ ทุกเวลา. Such as scrub beads in cosmetics, fibers from polyester clothing, or packaging that breaks down naturally.
Where do microplastics come from in everyday life?
Although invisible, microplastics may be in these things we come into contact with every day.
- Synthetic Clothing – Each load of laundry can release tiny fibers into the water system.
- Plastic food containers and packaging – especially when used with hot or microwaving food
- Scrub beads – such as facial scrubs and some toothpastes that contain microbeads
- Drinking water in plastic bottles – Study finds many brands are contaminated with plastic debris
- Disposable tea bags – Nylon or polyester tea bags may release microplastics into hot water.
- Cleaning equipment such as sponges or synthetic cloths – when worn out, they release small plastic particles.
- House dust – Some dust consists of fibers from carpets, curtains and plastic furniture.
How do microplastics affect the body?
- May cause inflammation or irritation in the digestive system.
- Risk of absorbing toxins bound to microplastics into the body
- In some experimental animals, effects on hormones and the immune system have been observed.
How to reduce your daily intake of microplastics
- Avoid single-use plastics such as straws, plastic bags and foam boxes.
- Use glass or stainless steel boxes instead of plastic packaging.
- Wash synthetic fabrics less frequently and use microfiber filter bags.
- Choose cosmetics that do not contain plastic scrub beads (look for words like polyethylene or polypropylene in the ingredients).
- Be careful when using plastic with hot food or microwaving it.
- Clean your home regularly to reduce dust buildup from fibers and plastics.
- Choose to drink filtered water from a system with a fine filter to reduce contaminants.
Microplastics are closer than you think.
In an era where plastic covers almost every area of our daily lives, we need to be aware that microplastics are not only in the environment, but can also accumulate in our bodies without our knowing. Intentionally reducing plastic use will help both our health and the planet at the same time.