Microplastics—small plastic fragments less than 5mm in diameter—are an insidious form of pollution that permeates the ocean. These particles come from various sources: larger plastic objects that break down over time, microbeads in personal care products, and synthetic fibers from clothing. As microplastics are nearly impossible to remove once they enter the ocean, they pose a significant threat to marine life, which can mistake them for food. The ingestion of microplastics by fish and other marine animals can lead to malnutrition, reproductive issues, and even death.
These particles are also making their way into our food and drinking water, raising concerns about their potential impact on human health. While research is still ongoing, studies suggest that the chemicals associated with microplastics can disrupt hormone levels and immune function.