Microplastics pollution and how it's endangering our oceans

Do we need to inform anyone else that the way plastic is used in our society has an impact on the planet? Beaches are littered, animals die from plastic in their stomachs and coral reefs are also full of debris. But we are recycling? We are doing the right thing, aren't we?

In the 21st century, we are only just learning about the impact of our plastic consumption on the environment in recent decades.

Plastic pollution is everywhere, even in our drinking water or in the most remote areas of Antarctica. In addition to visible pollution, microplastics pose a whole new challenge due to their small size.

These microscopic plastic particles come from a variety of sources.

Some are released from marine debris and landfill waste as it slowly disintegrates. A variety of cosmetics and beauty products contain them, including toothpaste, shampoos or body scrubs.

Many microplastics also hide in our wardrobe - they are released from synthetic clothing when it is washed.

Whether released from a discarded bottle or a washed shirt, they become part of our water cycle because our current technologies are unable to filter them out.

Because they cannot be removed, microplastics pose several dangers, especially to marine ecosystems. Small animals can swallow them, and because the microplastics block their digestive tracts, they can die. However, they can also be eaten by larger fish, which are eaten by larger fish which then end up on many people's plates. As if that were not bad enough, microplastics can bind toxins to themselves that are then consumed along with the microplastic.

So it is essential that we all help to stop the release of microplastics into the ocean. Limit the amount of plastic you rely on. Every little effort makes a difference.