A recent study from research labs in China was highlighted in Scientific American because it reveals new information about microplastics. Many know that they are only becoming more pervasive, polluting the planet's water and soil. Now, researchers have confirmed microplastics can also be a cozy home for drug-resistant bacteria. 

What's happening?

Microplastics have proved to be the ideal surface for bacteria to nest on. Their porous nature allows germs to stick to them and breed with no resistance, creating a substance called biofilm. This material is perfect for swapping genes, especially those that resist antibiotics. These medicines also similarly adhere to plastics, exposing bacteria to their properties until they learn how to trap them. 

Scientists are still trying to understand the exact reason plastic fosters their growth so well — there are many unknowns. Timothy Walsh, a microbiologist from the University of Oxford, said, per Scientific American: "We've just really scratched the surface." 

The behaviors are concerning because microplastics are increasing for many reasons, including population growth and consumerist trends. This gives microorganisms more surface area to reproduce and impact people's health. Communities close to manufacturers relying on plastics could see an uptick in illnesses that don't respond to medicines because the bacteria have adapted against them. 

Why are these bacteria important?

Antimicrobial resistance is growing, which poses a monumental threat to human health. Behaviors such as using excessive plastic and throwing it away carelessly exacerbate this trend. This is one of many instances that show the connection between environmental advocacy and public wellness. 

The situation also highlights the growing concern of microplastic pollution. Medical experts have created new procedures to try to remove microplastics from blood, and others are making probiotic supplements that may combat them.

What's being done about microplastics and drug-resistant bacteria?

Fortunately, there are many solutions to fight these concerns — even on a community level. Minimizing plastic use by bringing containers to restaurants and using reusable bags are tiny but mighty ways to reduce common microplastics.

However, citizens can also advocate for greater attention toward related research. This includes fighting for funding for water treatment plants and similar utilities so they can better understand how to cleanse resources before contaminants spread into more environments.

Researchers are also determined to answer the questions this study posed. Positioning the pollution issue alongside a health crisis will motivate governments and companies alike to invest time and money into learning more, as it will simultaneously benefit economies, health, and habitats.

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