Microplastics, tiny plastic fragments originating from everyday items, are increasingly concerning due to their persistence in the environment and human bodies.

Recent studies indicate that drinking water is a significant source of microplastic exposure, as current wastewater treatment plants are ineffective at fully removing these particles.

Experts like Un-Jung Kim from the University of Texas at Arlington emphasize that despite advancements, wastewater treatment facilities still cannot completely eliminate microplastics.

The variability in treatment effectiveness is partly attributed to the absence of a universal definition of microplastics and standardized measurement methods, according to researcher Jenny Kim Nguyen.

To effectively tackle microplastic pollution, developing standardized testing methods is crucial for understanding and mitigating the associated health risks.

Research has shown that microplastics can cause inflammation and other health issues, with some studies revealing their presence in the arteries of stroke patients, indicating potential risks to vital organs.

Additionally, microplastics may reintroduce harmful pollutants such as bisphenols, PFAS, and antibiotics back into the environment, raising further health concerns.

Concerns also extend to ecological health, as microplastics disrupt photosynthesis and have broader environmental effects.

A recent literature review advocating for better detection and reduction of microplastics was published in the journal Science of the Total Environment.

Since the onset of plastic production, approximately 9 billion metric tons of plastic have been produced, much of which has degraded into microplastics contaminating soil and water worldwide.

Consumers can reduce their exposure to microplastics by choosing textiles with less plastic, as microfibers are a major source of this pollution.