Plastics, as a natural or synthetic polymer, are well-known to all of us. They cannot be digested or absorbed by the human digestive system, and if buried underground, they can take hundreds of years to decompose.

Microplastics are different from regular plastics. Microplastics typically refer to plastic particles with a diameter smaller than 5mm, a concept first introduced by British scientists in 2004.

On October 23, 2018, researchers from the Medical University of Vienna announced a shocking revelation at the European Gastroenterology Conference. They detected the presence of microplastics in human feces, implying that the ingestion of plastics has become a reality for humans.

On March 24, 2022, a study published in the renowned environmental science journal 'International Environment' reported that, for the first time, a research team led by the Free University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands discovered microplastics in human blood.

The potential hazards of microplastics may include three aspects！

One: Hazards of Plastic Additives

There are over 10,000 different chemicals or 'additives' used to alter the physical properties of plastics, making them more flexible, harder, or more versatile. As plastics degrade and become microplastics, these chemicals may persist.

Research indicates that microplastics leach these chemicals locally into human tissues or other accumulation areas. Out of these 10,000 chemical additives, approximately 2,400 are categorized as substances of potential concern, meeting the European Union's criteria for persistence, bioaccumulation, or toxicity.

Take the infamous Bisphenol A (BPA) as an example, which is one of the chemicals known to interfere with the endocrine system. This substance is an additive that makes plastic more durable and was once widely used in plastic water bottles, baby bottles, and canned product packaging.

Bisphenol A may mimic estrogen, thereby potentially impacting human health.

Existing research suggests that exposure to Bisphenol A is associated with various types of cancer, ADHD, obesity, and low sperm count. The degradation of microplastics in human blood may retain BPA, potentially increasing our exposure and leading to unnecessary consequences.

However, Bisphenol A is just one of the 2,400 substances categorized as 'substances of potential concern.

Two: Inflammatory Responses Caused by Plastics

White blood cells can break down bacteria and other substances without an issue, but microplastics cannot degrade.

When white blood cells engulf a certain quantity of microplastics, they undergo cell death, releasing enzymes and triggering localized inflammation.

At the same time, plastic particles persist, leading to further attacks by white blood cells.

Experts point out that this triggers sustained activation, leading to various adverse reactions, including oxidative stress and the continuous release of cytokines that induce inflammatory responses.

Inhaling microplastic particles can lead to respiratory diseases and cancer. Nanoscale microplastics can penetrate deep into the lungs and even the bloodstream, causing harm to the heart, blood vessels, and brain.

Three: Microplastics as Carriers of Harmful Substances

Microplastics can also pick up harmful substances and transport them into your body.

When microplastics are in the environment, they can act like sponges, absorbing chemicals, which may include known environmental pollutants such as pesticides, fluorinated compounds, flame retardants, and more.

Once inside the body, these chemicals may be released, potentially leading to cancer, chronic inflammation, or other unknown effects.

Microplastic particles can also serve as carriers for microorganisms, bacteria, and viruses.

Reducing plastic waste is urgent and cannot be delayed!

As individuals, we should also be mindful of reducing the use of plastic products in our daily lives.

One: Use Fewer Plastic Bags

After a trip to the supermarket or a stroll through the market, if you come back with a handful of plastic bags, it might seem convenient, but in reality, you are generating more plastic waste!

Two: Order Less Takeout

What are takeout containers made of? Most of them are plastic! Not to mention the potential harmful substances when hot food comes into contact with plastic. Ordering takeout every day contributes to a significant amount of plastic waste!

Three: Use Fewer Straws

Using fewer straws, even just one small straw, can also help reduce plastic waste.

Four: Don't Litter Plastic Products

Don't casually throw away plastic bottles or plastic bags. Place them in designated bins and hand them over to specialized environmental sanitation departments for proper disposal. This helps reduce environmental pollution and lowers the risk of harm to oneself.

Five: Opt for Biodegradable Plastics

While it might not be possible to completely eliminate plastic use through plastic restrictions or bans, if you must use plastic, choose biodegradable options to reduce environmental pollution caused by conventional plastics.