Healthcare (Commonwealth Union) – The pervasive presence of microplastics in our environment has become a pressing concern for scientists, environmentalists, and health experts worldwide. These tiny plastic particles, measuring less than 5mm in size, have infiltrated every aspect of our lives, from the food we eat to the air we breathe. As research into the impact of microplastics on health intensifies, the revelations are alarming, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to this global crisis.
Microplastics originate from various sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic waste, microbeads in personal care products, and synthetic fibers from clothing. Their ubiquity in marine environments has been well-documented, but recent studies have also detected microplastics in soil, air, and even remote regions like the Arctic. This widespread contamination underscores the difficulty of escaping exposure to these particles.
A significant study conducted by Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC) in collaboration with the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) has revealed concerning levels of microplastic contamination in organic waste and compost applied to land in New Zealand.
Published on 15 January in Water Emerging Contaminants and Nanoplastics, the research highlights the alarming presence of thousands of microplastic particles per kilogram of organic waste, which could potentially infiltrate productive soils.
Helena Ruffell, a PhD candidate at UC, led the research as part of her doctoral thesis. Her analysis covered a range of organic wastes commonly utilized as fertilisers, soil enhancers, or for land rehabilitation. These included biosolids (treated sewage sludge), vermicompost (compost from worm farming), bulk compost sourced from kerbside collections and industrial-scale facilities, as well as bagged composts sold in garden centers across New Zealand.
The findings revealed microplastic concentrations ranging from 1,100 to 2,700 particles per kilogram of organic waste.
“Organic wastes are a valuable source of carbon and nutrients to our soils, and diverting these wastes from landfill by applying them onto land is a crucial measure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote the circular economy,” explained Ruffell, who isset to receive her doctorate in UC’s Autumn graduation week.
“Our findings indicate that these contaminants in organic wastes originate from everyday products such as food packaging, health and beauty products, synthetic textiles, and household goods. These products shed and fragment microplastics, which can then enter wastewater treatment plants and ultimately be released into the environment.”
The research also uncovered that composts are polluted with microplastics, stemming from improper plastic disposal and misunderstandings about biodegradable and compostable plastics.
Although councils have made efforts to reduce plastic contamination in kerbside organics collections, both conventional plastics and biodegradable types like polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) were identified in mature composts. These materials failed to decompose fully during the composting process and are likely to build up in soils over time.
Ruffell indicated that biodegradable plastics are not breaking down as anticipated, resulting in their accumulation in soils. This raises serious concerns about the long-term effects of microplastics on soil health and productivity.
“We urgently need to reduce the use of plastics to prevent microplastic contamination of these valuable organic wastes.”
Public awareness and education also play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of microplastics on health. By making informed choices about the products we use and the food we consume, individuals can reduce their exposure to microplastics. However, systemic change requires the collective effort of governments, industry, and consumers to address this global challenge.
The impact of microplastics on health represents a growing concern that demands immediate attention. As research continues to unveil the complexities of this issue, it is clear that the solutions must be as multifaceted as the problem itself. Through concerted action and innovation, it is possible to mitigate the health risks posed by microplastics, protecting both our environment and future generations.
