Microplastics aren’t just a grave threat to sea life, they endanger our own – so a single-use future must be discouraged

Plastic pollution. Photo: Aryfahmed

Dr Catherine Conlon

Plastics have been polluting the planet since the mid-20th century, affecting both natural and urban ecosystems. As a result, global pollution ranks second to climate change as a serious environmental health threat.

Microplastics – solid particles and fibres measuring 5mm or less – occur due to weathering and degradation of commonly used plastic objects, such as toys, tools, furniture, clothes and paint. They are also added to cosmetics and cleaning products that end up in the environment.