A sweeping new analysis of scientific research has confirmed a disturbing reality: tiny plastic particles are not just polluting our environment, they are inside our bodies. 

These invisible fragments, called microplastics, result from our mismanagement of plastic waste, and scientists are now getting a clearer picture of the threat they pose.

What's happening?

A recent review of over 200 scientific papers by researchers at the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates concluded that our handling of plastic has become "a significant global problem" with "substantial negative impacts on human health." 

The numbers show why. Of the more than 300 million tons of plastic produced annually, only about 9% is ever recycled. The vast majority (79%) piles up in landfills, contaminating local ecosystems. 

These fragments come from the breakdown of countless everyday items, and their small size allows them to easily enter our food chain and water supply, creating a persistent cycle of contamination.

Why is this concerning?

The biggest issue is what happens when these particles enter the human body. Scientists have already found them in brains, blood, and even placentas. 

This exposure is linked to health problems, with the University of Sharjah researchers noting it can cause "oxidative stress and physiological disturbances." For example, a recent study in mice connected long-term exposure to the development of liver fibrosis, a serious condition that can increase the risk of cirrhosis. 

The particles have also been linked to gastrointestinal irritation and can throw off the delicate balance of our gut microbiome. For some, even skin contact with contaminated water or soil can induce allergic reactions like contact dermatitis. 

This also becomes a community issue, as the health risks are often higher for those living near plastic production sites.

What's being done about this issue?

In response, a range of solutions are being developed. Nations are negotiating a global plastics treaty to reduce production, and new tools are consistently being created to reduce the harmful impacts of plastics. One is a clog-resistant water filter made from polyvinyl alcohol and graphene oxide that successfully captured the vast majority of microplastics in tests. Another is a blood filtration method similar to dialysis. 

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Researchers have also found that probiotics can be an "effective intervention to counter different toxins." Other innovative solutions to reduce microplastics in our environment include repurposing plastic waste into construction materials. 

While the scale of plastic pollution feels overwhelming, the diverse and innovative responses from scientists, policymakers, and everyday people making smarter choices to use less plastic provide reason for hope.

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