Microplastics and plastic-based chemicals are all around us, found in the food we eat, the things we drink, the clothing we wear, and the products we use and apply.
In fact, it is easier to list the items that do not hold plastic than to find those that do.
However, microplastics often go unconsidered, as they are not always visible to the naked eye.
Here are three surprising everyday products that may incorporate microplastics, along with some tips on how to avoid them.
Tea bags
This is a shocking one as people realise that tea bags are used so often.
Although some tea bags are paper-based, many commercial tea bags are made from plastic-based materials such as polypropylene and nylon.
These materials can break down into microplastics when exposed to heat and moisture.
According to research published in the journal of Environmental Science & Technology, some plastic tea bags could shed tens of billions of microplastic particles into a single cup of tea!
Envelopes
While most envelopes are crafted from paper, certain larger, sturdier envelopes are made from synthetic materials like polyethylene.
This plastic can degrade into microplastics.
The envelope manufacturing process may also comprise of plastic coatings and adhesives, which can produce microplastic particles either during production or after disposal.
To address the problem of microplastics in envelopes, manufacturers might explore more sustainable options, such as biodegradable materials or paper without plastic linings.
Wet wipes
In the UK, 11 billion wet wipes are sold annually, with 90% of them containing plastic.
These wipes can take decades to biodegrade, breaking down into harmful microplastics in the process.
In response to significant public support during the consultation process, the government has implemented a ban on the supply and sale of plastic-containing wet wipes.
This action addresses the serious environmental threat posed by wipes that are not fully disposable.
They can be ingested by wildlife, subsequently entering the food chain, and contaminating water supplies.
Microplastics are inescapable!
So, is it possible to completely avoid them?
The short answer is no; they are in nearly everything, including essential items.
However, the most effective strategy to reduce exposure to microplastics is to replace plastic materials with natural alternatives.
You can lower your microplastic footprint by using water filters, removing single-use plastics, and avoiding products that contain microbeads and synthetic materials.
