#Abstract

Twenty years after the first publication using the term microplastics, we review current understanding, refine definitions and consider future prospects. Microplastics arise from multiple sources including tires, textiles, cosmetics, paint and the fragmentation of larger items. They are widely distributed throughout the natural environment with evidence of harm at multiple levels of biological organization. They are pervasive in food and drink and have been detected throughout the human body, with emerging evidence of negative effects. Environmental contamination could double by 2040 and widescale harm has been predicted. Public concern is increasing and diverse measures to address microplastics pollution are being considered in international negotiations. Clear evidence on the efficacy of potential solutions is now needed to address the issue and to minimize the risks of unintended consequences.

  • metaStatic@kbin.earth
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    27 days ago

    I think we can all look around at what’s happening in the world today and agree that glitter is the worst thing humanity has ever done.

  • AA5B@lemmy.world
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    16 days ago

    Does anyone know anything about microplastics filters for clothes washers? That seemed like one of the few places an individual could control

    A year or two ago I started looking at them, but they are expensive and there was a lot of online discussion questioning their usefulness