In a large study on microplastics in bottled water, researchers found microplastic in 93% of the samples they tested. [3] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source This means you’re more likely to drink microplastics if you drink from a plastic water bottle than if you drink filtered tap water.
If you place a takeout order, tell them you’ll bring your own containers when you pick the food up. Plastic utensils are used for an average of 3 minutes, but the plastic breaks down in the environment for hundreds of years.
To cut back on plastic wrap, get creative with plates—if you cut a lemon or onion in half, turn it upside down so it sits flat on a dish. Then, stick it in the fridge. No need for plastic.
If you like seafood and don’t want to give it up entirely, you might choose to skip bivalves and enjoy fish once in a while.
You may have heard that some produce, like apples and carrots, contains microplastics. While this is true, fresh produce still contains fewer microplastics than processed convenience foods. Tea steeped in bags is actually high in microplastics, so switch to loose leaf tea.
If you can’t afford natural fibers, check out secondhand shops. Even if you can’t find natural fibers there, buying synthetic clothes from a thrift store is better than buying them brand new.
Look into getting a filter that attaches to your machine’s hose or a ball that catches microplastics from your clothes—empty the ball into your trash to prevent microplastics from getting into the water system.
Researchers found that running a load of laundry through the dryer released microfibers 30 feet (9. 1 m) away from the vent—directly into the environment.
If you have to buy food that’s in plastic, avoid containers with the codes 3 and 6 since these are more harmful than codes 2, 4, and 5. Code 3 plastic is PVC, which leaches phthalates—a chemical that disrupts your hormones. Code 6 plastic is polystyrene or styrofoam, which breaks up really easily into microplastics. It’s also a probable carcinogen. [14] X Research source
Polythelene Polypropylene Nylon Polymethyl methacrylate Acrylates Copolymer
For the best results, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter. You may have been told to dust with a microfiber cloth, but microfiber cloths are a huge source of microplastics. Reach for old sheets, towels, or clothes to use as dusting rags instead.
If it’s not feasible for you to take public transit, ride your bike instead or carpool with neighbors and co-workers. If you have to drive, combine your errands, so you’re being more efficient about driving.
If you’re unhappy with the steps your legislators may or may not be taking, start your own grassroots movement to reduce microplastics in your community. You might just be the change your community needs!
