The Impact of Microplastics on Environmental and Human Health

Presenter

Natasha Vargas

Campus

Springfield Technical Community College

Sponsor

Reena Randhir, Department of Biology, Springfield Technical Community College

Schedule

Session 4, 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C32, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 4 (C31-C40) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Microplastic pollution has been widely documented in all ecosystems and hence is a global challenge. They are very small particles of plastic that measure less than 5mm and come from the breakdown of larger plastic items, synthetic fibers from cosmetic industry due to improper disposal. The objective of my research is to study how these microplastics affect environmental and human health. Data shows that traces of these plastics have been found in air, water bodies, and land. Surprisingly they were also detected throughout the human tissues and blood. They harm our environment and wildlife, disrupting biochemical cycles, and ecosystem health. These microplastics have detrimental health effects on metabolism causing immune, endocrine, and reproductive disorders and neurotoxicity. Plasticizers, that are added to plastics during manufacturing can leech into the environment causing more damage. Prevention of these microplastics in water is crucial. Some ways to prevent water contamination are to reduce the use of plastic and recycle. Reducing plastic manufacture and reuse, developing better waste management strategies, cleaning up existing microplastics, and raising awareness are some recommendations. To reduce our microplastic one should choose filtered drinking water, whole foods with minimal plastic packaging, reduce shellfish consumption and avoid plastic dishes at home.

Keywords

water contamination, microplastics, chemicals

Research Area

Public Health and Epidemiology

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