March 15, 2023
What are microplastics?
If you’ve been following the news in recent years, you’ve probably heard about the dangers of microplastics. But what are they, where do they come from, and why should we care? In this post, we’ll explain what microplastics are, why they’re a problem, and offer some tips on how to avoid them.
What are microplastics and why are they harmful?
Years ago, our friends and partners at 5 Gyres first identified and named microplastics after years of rigorous research and study. Since 2012, we’ve been working with 5 Gyres to restore healthy, plastic-free oceans, collectively advocating for better legislation, inspiring young minds, and spreading the word about the serious harm plastic is doing to our oceans and waterways. Several of our staff have joined crews of like-minded activists, scientists, and ocean lovers on multiple 5 Gyres expeditions to collect plastic, strengthen legislation, inspire young minds, and spread the word about the serious harm plastic is doing to our oceans and waterways.Microplastics are small pieces of plastic that are less than 5 millimeters long. They are often used in cosmetics and other personal care products, such as scrubs or toothpaste. Microplastics can also come from larger pieces of plastic that break down over time due to weathering or exposure to sunlight. As a result, there are literally tons of microplastics in the oceans, our personal care products, and even in our food.
No matter how they are formed, microplastics and plastic waste are a major problem for the environment. Here’s why:
- Microplastics are polluting our waterways. Because microplastics are so small, they can easily travel through our sewage system and end up in our lakes, rivers and oceans, where they pollute the water and harm marine life. Studies have shown that microplastics can absorb toxins such as pesticides and industrial chemicals, which can then be passed on to the animals that ingest them. This makes microplastics a serious threat to the food chain, including humans.
- Microplastics have a negative impact on wildlife. In addition to polluting waterways, microplastics can also directly impact land-based animals. Birds, for example, often mistake microplastics for food and feed them to their young. This can lead to malnutrition or even starvation. And because plastics take hundreds, if not thousands, of years to degrade, the problem is only getting worse. Millions of tons of plastic are produced and discarded every year—and much of it ends up in the environment.
- Microplastics are difficult to clean up. Once microplastics enter the environment, they are extremely difficult to remove. Because they are so light, they can easily travel long distances via wind and water currents. This makes cleaning up microplastics a daunting task that requires a global effort
How can you avoid Microplastics?
The best way to avoid microplastics is to not buy products that contain them. When shopping, look for products that are labeled “microbead-free” or “biodegradable” (and of course, be aware of what biodegradable means). You can also look for products that come in recyclable packaging. And when you’re done using a product, make sure you recycle it properly so it doesn’t end up in the environment.
Not only can you refuse to buy items that contain microbeads, but you can also prevent the creation of microplastics when larger plastics are broken down by the elements. This can be easily achieved by not buying disposable plastic containers, and the most obvious way to do that is to replace your drink bottles and food containers with items that you can use for a long time.
Klean Kanteen bottles are made from certified 90% recycled 18/8 stainless steel, ensuring that every bottle you purchase will stand the test of time without negatively impacting the environment like single-use plastics do.