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Discovering microwaste: small details, big consequences
The term “microwaste” refers to small particles of solid waste, generally less than 5 millimeters in diameter, which can range from plastic fragments to textile fibers and particles from personal care products. Some microwaste is so small that it is not visible to the naked eye. They can be found in different ecosystems, such as aquatic ecosystems. There are several sources of microwaste emissions, many of them human. For example, the release of microplastics from the use of personal care materials such as exfoliants and the release of textile fibers when washing clothes. Sources of microwaste The degradation of plastic products such as bags and bottles generates microplastic. What happens is that these objects, once in the sea, are subject to degradation due to sunlight and waves. Many personal care products, such as face and body scrubs, contain plastic microbeads. This material generally ends up in sewers and ends up in waterways. Synthetic clothing, such as polyester, releases small textile fibers during the washing process. Vehicle tires release microplastics when they rub against the asphalt. This material can be transported by rainwater and end up in waterways.
in fertilizers or pesticides. Ship hulls typically contain antifouling coatings based on microscopic heavy metal particles. The wear and tear of these coatings can release metallic microdebris into coastal waters. Environmental impact Despite being Uruguay Mobile Number List microscopic, they have a significant impact on nature. A very common impact occurs in the aquatic ecosystem. Fish at the bottom of the food chain ingest microplastics. Since microplastic can absorb chemical pollutants, it contaminates fish and even humans who eat these fish. Microscopic particles released during wear from tires and buildings can contribute to air pollution. The presence of microplastics in groundwater can compromise the supply of drinking water and contaminate it.
Microwaste and food The microtrash ingested by fish is deposited in their bodies and contaminates humans who feed on these fish. Solutions to the problem of microwaste It is important to reduce the consumption of plastic objects such as bags, bottles and straws. There are reusable alternatives for these objects. Many sources of microwaste end up in sewers. Therefore, it is important to have efficient filtration systems to prevent the material from ending up in waterways. Researchers are developing technologies to remove microplastics directly from bodies of water. These technologies include special filters and devices that can capture plastic particles before they spread to the oceans. Impact of the fashion industry Clothing made from nylon and polyester releases microplastics during washing. Clothing dyes can also contain microplastics. Since the fashion industry is known for the overproduction and rapid disposal of clothing, many garments that are not biodegradable end up in landfills, releasing microplastics into the environment. Washing clothes releases a large amount of microplastics in a single wash. As a result, many clothing brands now produce clothing made from biodegradable materials, such as natural fibers.
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發表於 2024-3-12 17:48:36