2024 research conducted at the University of California, San Diego discovered that tiny plastic particles have the ability to penetrate the human body and trigger autoimmune conditions and other health conditions. The study found that these microplastics can trigger inflammation and disrupt the immune system, leading to a higher chance of autoimmune illnesses.
"We're just starting to understand the implications of microplastics. We've only scratched the surface of knowing the environmental and health impacts," said Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Michael Burkart, one of the paper's authors.
What can we do as individuals?
- Do not buy anymore plastic products and try and use reusable ceramic or glass products.
- Support initiatives that promote plastic reduction like not using lastic bags or lastic straws
- Use cloth bags instead of plastic bags
- Support businesses that promote the reduction of plastic use and advocate for combatting plastic pollution.
What is being done?
Finding eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastics is crucial.
Exciting findings from UC San Diego and Algenesis reveal that the eco-friendly polymers, they have created, break down naturally, even at the microplastic level, in under seven months. "When we first created these algae-based polymers about six years ago, our intention was always that it be completely biodegradable," said another of the paper's authors, Robert Pomeroy, who is also a professor of chemistry and biochemistry and an Algenesis co-founder. "We had plenty of data to suggest that our material was disappearing in the compost, but this is the first time we've measured it at the microparticle level.""When we started this work, we were told it was impossible," stated Burkart. "Now we see a different reality. There's a lot of work to be done, but we want to give people hope. It is possible."
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