What are microplastics?
Plastic waste that is smaller than 0.5 cm (that’s the size of an eraser attached to the top of a pencil) is called microplastic. Microplastics are formed when larger pieces of plastic break down into smaller pieces. Microplastics are of two types:
1. Primary microplastics: These are tiny plastic pieces made to be used in beauty products, manufacturing equipment, etc. It also includes tiny particles that are shed from clothing.
2. Secondary microplastics: These are formed when larger plastic items, such as water bottles, degrade due to continuous exposure to sunlight, water, etc.
What harmful effects do microplastics have on our environment?
Every year a lot of plastic garbage is generated across the world. So it's no surprise that microplastics are everywhere!
They have been found in drinking water, marine animals, tap water, other land animals, and even in human blood. Marine animals often mistake microplastics for food and eat them.
Microplastics can also carry poisonous materials and disease-causing germs.
Okay. If microplastics are so bad, why is nobody doing anything about it?
Many countries are now taking steps to stop the spread of microplastics. They have asked companies like Pepsico, Amazon, Coca-Cola, etc. to dispose of plastic responsibly. The Indian government has banned the use of single-use plastics. Plastic waste is also being recycled to make roads, bricks, etc. People in Kerala have been hired to remove plastics from the sea. The government has also asked people to use reusable products.
How can we avoid generating microplastic waste?
We too can help in stopping the spread of microplastics. How? Well, we can stop using plastic in our everyday life - that means not using plastic bags, not using plastic wrap in our tiffins, etc. This plastic is what will eventually become microplastic! The Earth is the only home we have. We share it with other living creatures. For their sake and ours, we must stop using plastic as much as we can. Share the dangers of microplastics with your friends and family. Are you willing to help by avoiding plastic products from now on?
