Researchers, who are studying the accumulation of microplastics
in the global oceans, have documented a link between microplastics and laundry. Yes that’s right – our
washing machines!
A single garment made of
synthetic plastic-based material (for example: polyester, acrylics, nylons) can
release > 1900 plastic fibers per wash.
These fibers are then transported to wastewater treatment facilities
that discharge to rivers that travel to the ocean or are directly discharged to
the ocean. Scientists looked at
shorelines at 18 beaches worldwide and found microplastics at every beach on
six continents! As expected, greater concentrations
of microplastic were found in more densely populated areas.
Much of the plastic in the ocean is in the
form of tiny pieces which can be eaten by marine life and passed through the
food web. Plastic can be toxic or may
physically harm or kill ocean life.
Microplastics may the result of broken down larger plastics items and
now we know are also from wastewater discharges. Microplastics do not breakdown completely in
the environment and pose a long-term hazard in the ocean.
So the next time you shop – check the material
content and consider the ocean! Click here for the study’s
abstract.
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