20 Years of Microplastics Research Reveals Global Environmental and Health Crisis

Studies show microplastics are pervasive in ecosystems and human bodies, necessitating urgent global action.

Microplastics, defined as plastic particles 5mm or smaller, are found in every corner of the planet, from deep sea sediments to Mount Everest.
Research has identified major sources of microplastics, including synthetic textiles, vehicle tires, cosmetic cleansers, and plastic-coated fertilizers.
Microplastics have been detected in over 1,300 animal species and throughout the human body, including in lungs, livers, kidneys, and reproductive organs.
The health effects of microplastics are still being studied, but evidence suggests potential risks like inflammation, oxidative stress, and genotoxicity.
International efforts, including the upcoming UN Global Plastics Treaty negotiations, aim to address microplastic pollution through regulatory and preventive measures.