What are microplastics and how can we stop contributing to the problem

How about dedicating just 15-minutes of your day to learning a little more about microplastics? I’ll keep it short, then I recommend you press play on the TEDx Talk at the bottom to learn a little bit more.

The talk is from back in 2018 but the topic is even more relevant now as microplastics make their way into the human body via seafood and even some water sources (as proven by stool samples). Scientists have also started find find microplastics in snow in remote areas of the Alps and Arctic – a problem that’s only expected to get worse and worse until more regulations are placed on the creation of – and disposal of – these plastic products.

What are microplastics?

A microplastic is classified as any plastic smaller than 5 millimeters. Some of these plastics are created deliberately, e.g. microbeads which are still used in many cosmetic and beauty products (banned in the U.S.). Other microplastics are a byproduct of ocean pollution as the waves and fierce currents break down plastic bottles and other debris.

Another way these microplastics make their way into our water is with each load of laundry. Plastic fibers from synthetic textiles (polyester, acrylic, nylon, etc.) break away from clothing in the wash and find their way to the ocean. Unfortunately, a lot of your clothes contain these synthetic fibers even if it’s not stated on the label.

What can you do?

If you can, install a microfiber filter on your washing machine. If that’s not possible, invest in a GUPPYFRIEND washing bag. We have a GUPPYFRIEND and wash most of our clothes in it – specifically some of the exercise clothes we have made of materials like polyester and nylon (i.e. all of my lululemon things).

In addition to using these products you could…

Read clothing labels before you buy. Opt for clothes made of natural, plant-based fibers.
Recycle. Do what you can to recycle properly. It’s not always as simple as putting a plastic bottle in the plastic bin. Sometimes it requires a bit more effort like removing the cap, peeling off the label, etc.
Don’t buy plastic. This is nearly impossible. Maybe you do the exercise presented in the TEDx Talk and see if there are any habits that you can stop, e.g. buying water bottles, purchasing products that don’t last, or buying nuts, seeds, oats, etc. packaged in plastic.

TEDx Talk: Microplastics are everywhere

Now for the TEDx Talk with Sarah Dudas, a biologist at Fisheries and Oceans Canada, a biology professor at Vancouver Island University and an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Victoria. For the last several years, she’s worked closely with federal and provincial governments, industry and non-profit organizations to study the effects of human activities on coastal ecosystems.

Realizing how much plastic you truly touch in a day might shock you.

What’s the deal with microplastics + a 15-minute TEDx Talk