Why in the news?

  • Scientists from the CSIR- National Institute of Oceanography in Goa found that Microplastics are threatening Goa’s estuarine fisheries and human consumers.

Microplastics Pollution

  • Definition: Tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, resulting from the breakdown of larger plastics or produced intentionally for commercial use (e.g., in cosmetics).
  • Types:
    • Primary Microplastics: Manufactured small plastic particles (e.g., microbeads in cosmetics).
    • Secondary Microplastics: Formed by the fragmentation of larger plastic debris through weathering, UV exposure, and mechanical forces.
  • Sources:
    • Industrial and Consumer Products: Microbeads in cosmetics, synthetic textiles, and cleaning agents.
    • Breakdown of Plastics: Plastic bags, bottles, and other packaging.
    • Industrial Waste: Tire abrasion and paint particles.
    • Marine and Terrestrial Sources: Fishing gear and agricultural films.
  • Impacts:
    • Environmental:
      • Ingestion by marine organisms disrupts ecosystems.
      • Accumulates in soil and water, reducing fertility and contaminating drinking water.
      • Airborne microplastics contribute to air pollution.
    • Health:
      • Enters humans through food, water, and air.
      • Carries harmful chemicals like phthalates and heavy metals.
      • Linked to respiratory and endocrine disruptions.
  • Solutions:
    • Prevention: Reduce plastic use and ban microbeads and adopt reusable and biodegradable materials.
    • Improved Waste Management: Enhance recycling and disposal systems and prevent plastic leakage into natural environments.
    • Technological Innovations: Advanced water treatment systems.
    • Legislation: Ban single-use plastics and implement Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
    • Public Awareness: Educate about reducing plastic usage and proper waste disposal.
    • Scientific Research: Study long-term impacts and develop sustainable solutions.
  • Global Efforts:
    • UNEP: Advocates for treaties to tackle plastic pollution.
    • Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP): Supports national actions against plastic waste.
    • Ocean Cleanup Projects: Focus on removing plastics from oceans and rivers.