The biggest cause of microplastics is the breakdown of larger plastic items.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size. They come from various sources, but the primary contributor is the degradation of larger plastic products.
When plastic waste ends up in the environment, it is exposed to sunlight, wind, and water, causing it to break down into smaller and smaller pieces. This process is called plastic fragmentation.
Here are some of the key ways larger plastics contribute to microplastic pollution:
- Plastic debris: Items like plastic bottles, bags, and food packaging break down into microplastics over time.
- Clothing: Synthetic clothing like fleece and polyester shed microfibers during washing, which eventually end up in wastewater and the environment.
- Tire wear: Tires release microplastics as they wear down, contributing to road dust and ultimately ending up in waterways.
- Industrial processes: Manufacturing and industrial activities can release microplastics into the air and water.
The continuous production and disposal of plastic products drive the cycle of microplastic generation. This highlights the importance of reducing plastic consumption, promoting recycling, and developing sustainable alternatives.
