Joining the World Environment Day festivities under the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution,” we shed light on a crucial environmental concern. Plastic pollution has emerged as a pressing global issue, with the production of disposable plastic goods outpacing our capacity to manage them effectively. However, a recent discovery by scientists is worth noting: the presence of plastic pollution in both the rain and the air we breathe.
Imagine witnessing 120 plastic bottles descending from the sky—an alarming sight that would undoubtedly evoke concern. Now, expand that number to a staggering million.
Recent research reveals that yearly microplastics that descend upon merely 11 national parks and wilderness areas in the United States are equivalent to over 1,000 tonnes. These microplastics are often invisible to the naked eye, yet we unknowingly inhale them.
Photo source: Our World in Data
Breathing Plastic Pollution
Led by a scientist from Utah State University, a team of researchers embarked on a mission to collect air and rainwater samples from 11 locations in the western region of the United States. To their surprise, substantial amounts of microplastics were discovered in the rain and present in the air.
98% of the samples they gathered contained minuscule plastic particles, some barely visible to the naked eye. It was no shock that the wind carried the tiniest particles, while larger ones were commonly found in the collected water.
Ironically, one of plastic’s defining characteristics—its durability—has become its greatest curse. Plastic materials do not decompose; they fragment. A single plastic item can eventually break down into countless microplastic pieces and find its way into major bodies of water worldwide.
Photo source: Our World in Data
Microplastics: Ubiquitous Contaminants
Microplastics have been found in diverse ecosystems, from the depths of the ocean seabed to the frozen Arctic sea ice. They have infiltrated rivers, lakes, mountain peaks, and even desert sand dunes. Alarming discoveries include their potential presence in the food chain and fecal matter.
Microplastics have also been encountered in the South Pacific, North Atlantic, the extreme depths of the Mariana Trench (11 kilometers beneath the Pacific Ocean’s surface), and even at the summit of Mount Everest.
In short, their presence is ubiquitous, and they have even been detected in human fecal matter. While the World Health Organization suggests that microplastics in drinking water pose no significant threat to human health based on limited information, they emphasize the need for further research and a crackdown on plastic pollution.
From Micro to Nano: An Escalating Issue
Microplastics encompass particles smaller than approximately 5mm, while nano plastics can be as minuscule as one million of a millimeter. Nanoplastics serve various purposes, intentionally manufactured for applications spanning cosmetics to diagnostics. However, many originate from plastic degradation.
These particles are so small that they can be lifted into the air by wind and transported over vast distances even when they enter the ocean. Air currents at high altitudes carry them across thousands of kilometers, and some attach to clouds, contributing to rainfall formation.
Breathe Healthier Outdoor and Indoor Air Quality
Whether in the comfort of your home, at your workplace, or doing activities outdoors, the air quality can impact your mood and overall health. Here are some efficient ways to improve outdoor and indoor air quality this World Environment Day.
Indoor Air
Surprisingly, indoor air can be up to five times more harmful than outdoor air, posing risks even within the confines of your workplace or home. Harmful pollutants, including PM 2.5 particles, jeopardize the respiratory systems of nearly everyone.
To address this concern, consider the installation of a HEPA air purifier like the Filtro Pure air purifier. This efficient device eliminates harmful pollutants through a three-stage purification process, targeting bacteria, PM 2.5, odors, and large particles. Safeguard your well-being by breathing in cleaner, safer air.
Also Read: Benefits of An Air Purifier
Outdoor Air
In light of the worsening air quality, it has become imperative to take proactive measures against pollution. Here are some significant steps toward reducing air pollution:
- Planting additional trees
- Minimizing vehicular emissions
- Embracing public transportation
As we commemorate World Environment Day 2023, let us take a small but impactful stride toward safeguarding our planet for a brighter future.
If you’re looking for a reliable air purifier or other efficient techniques that can help you breathe healthier air indoors, contact us.
