The Invisible Threat:
- von Fähzan Ahmad
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- 05 Apr., 2023
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How Microplastics in Drinking Water are Harming Your Health!
Many are unaware that the liquid we consume is full of minuscule, imperceptible fragments of plastic. These microplastics, small enough to pass through most filtration systems, can cause serious health risks.
What Are Microplastics and how do they get into Drinking Water?
What Are Microplastics and how do they get into Drinking Water?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that measure less than 5 millimeters in length and can cause serious health risks. They come from a variety of sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic items such as water bottles and packaging, as well as microbeads in personal care products like face wash and toothpaste. Once they enter the environment, microplastics can be transported long distances by wind and water, and can end up in our oceans, rivers, and lakes, ultimately finding their way into drinking water supplies.
Associated Health Risks?
Microplastics in drinking water pose several health risks, such as absorbing and concentrating harmful chemicals such as pesticides and heavy metals, which can then be released into the body when the particles are ingested. Additionally, microplastics can damage the intestinal lining and disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to chronic inflammation and other health problems. There is also evidence that microplastics can accumulate in the liver and other organs, potentially causing long-term damage.
Discover the perfect solution : Klar2O!
With Klar2O, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your drinking water is free from hazardous microplastics. Our range of filtration products are specifically designed to remove microplastics from water, so you can stay safe and hydrated. And, to further limit your exposure to microplastics, reduce your use of single-use plastics, like plastic bags, straws and water bottles. Together, let's make the world a cleaner, safer place to live.
Microplastics in drinking water pose several health risks, such as absorbing and concentrating harmful chemicals such as pesticides and heavy metals, which can then be released into the body when the particles are ingested. Additionally, microplastics can damage the intestinal lining and disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to chronic inflammation and other health problems. There is also evidence that microplastics can accumulate in the liver and other organs, potentially causing long-term damage.
Discover the perfect solution : Klar2O!
With Klar2O, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your drinking water is free from hazardous microplastics. Our range of filtration products are specifically designed to remove microplastics from water, so you can stay safe and hydrated. And, to further limit your exposure to microplastics, reduce your use of single-use plastics, like plastic bags, straws and water bottles. Together, let's make the world a cleaner, safer place to live.
Plastic pollution is no longer a distant threat - it's everywhere. The alarming fact is that microplastics have invaded our planet and have become so widespread that they're finding their way into our food chain. Shockingly, even fruits and vegetables, considered as healthy and safe options, aren't immune to this contamination. Scientists have found that these tiny plastic particles have entered our soil and are being consumed unknowingly by humans.
A new report has revealed that an estimated 8-10 million tonnes of sewage sludge, rich in nutrients and a byproduct of cleaning municipal wastewater, is produced in Europe each year. And, around 40% of this waste is spread on farmland to be used as organic fertilizer. Unfortunately, this has caused farmland in Europe to be the largest global reservoir of microplastics, according to researchers at Cardiff University. As a result, between 31,000 and 42,000 tonnes of microplastics, or 86 trillion to 710 trillion microplastics particles, are contaminating European farmland each year.
The situation in the United States is equally worrisome. An environmental non-profit, the Environmental Working Group, discovered that sewage sludge, which often contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly found in plastic products, has contaminated almost 20 million acres of cropland. PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are hazardous and do not break down under normal environmental conditions.
As sewage sludge is costly to dispose of, the practice of using it as an organic fertilizer is common in both the US and Europe. However, this is leading to a growing concern about the accumulation of microplastics in our food chain. Ingesting microplastics is dangerous and could lead to long-term health issues, as research suggests.
A new report has revealed that an estimated 8-10 million tonnes of sewage sludge, rich in nutrients and a byproduct of cleaning municipal wastewater, is produced in Europe each year. And, around 40% of this waste is spread on farmland to be used as organic fertilizer. Unfortunately, this has caused farmland in Europe to be the largest global reservoir of microplastics, according to researchers at Cardiff University. As a result, between 31,000 and 42,000 tonnes of microplastics, or 86 trillion to 710 trillion microplastics particles, are contaminating European farmland each year.
The situation in the United States is equally worrisome. An environmental non-profit, the Environmental Working Group, discovered that sewage sludge, which often contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly found in plastic products, has contaminated almost 20 million acres of cropland. PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," are hazardous and do not break down under normal environmental conditions.
As sewage sludge is costly to dispose of, the practice of using it as an organic fertilizer is common in both the US and Europe. However, this is leading to a growing concern about the accumulation of microplastics in our food chain. Ingesting microplastics is dangerous and could lead to long-term health issues, as research suggests.
As a society, we need to take action now to combat plastic pollution. Governments must ensure proper waste disposal methods, and the use of alternatives to plastic products must be promoted. It is also necessary to invest in research and technology to prevent the accumulation of microplastics in our soils and waters. Only by working together, can we hope to reduce plastic pollution and safeguard our food from contamination.
Follow the link to read the full article:
A recent study conducted by scientists at Stanford University has brought to light the alarming fact that whales are consuming far more microplastics than previously estimated. The research was focused on blue, fin, and humpback whales, and their consumption of plastic fragments that are no larger than a few grains of sand. According to the study, some whales were found to be ingesting up to 10 million pieces of plastic per day.
The study revealed that whales predominantly feed at a depth of 50 to 250 meters below the surface, which coincides with the highest concentration of microplastics in the open ocean. This discovery suggests that whales may not be getting the nutrition they need to thrive due to their consumption of microplastics. The microplastics that whales consume are predominantly derived from their prey, rather than from the seawater that they ingest when lunging to capture krill and small fish.
The study's lead author, Shirel Kahane-Rapport, noted that further research is required to understand the impact of microplastics on krill and small fish, and whether these organisms grow less oil-rich or become less meaty or fatty when they consume microplastics. This research would give scientists a better understanding of how microplastics affect the entire marine food chain.
The findings of the study underscore the need for urgent action to address the issue of plastic pollution in the oceans. The devastating impact of plastic pollution on marine life is a global concern that requires immediate attention. The issue of plastic pollution requires a coordinated effort from all stakeholders, including governments, industries, and individuals, to reduce plastic waste and prevent it from entering the oceans.
The study revealed that whales predominantly feed at a depth of 50 to 250 meters below the surface, which coincides with the highest concentration of microplastics in the open ocean. This discovery suggests that whales may not be getting the nutrition they need to thrive due to their consumption of microplastics. The microplastics that whales consume are predominantly derived from their prey, rather than from the seawater that they ingest when lunging to capture krill and small fish.
The study's lead author, Shirel Kahane-Rapport, noted that further research is required to understand the impact of microplastics on krill and small fish, and whether these organisms grow less oil-rich or become less meaty or fatty when they consume microplastics. This research would give scientists a better understanding of how microplastics affect the entire marine food chain.
The findings of the study underscore the need for urgent action to address the issue of plastic pollution in the oceans. The devastating impact of plastic pollution on marine life is a global concern that requires immediate attention. The issue of plastic pollution requires a coordinated effort from all stakeholders, including governments, industries, and individuals, to reduce plastic waste and prevent it from entering the oceans.
Overall, the study highlights the urgent need for more research into the effects of microplastics on the marine ecosystem and the importance of taking concrete steps to reduce plastic pollution in our oceans.
Follow the link to read the full article:
A new study from Vrije Universiteit of Amsterdam has found that nearly 80% of meat and dairy products from farm animals contain microplastics. Plastic was found in 7 of 8 beef samples, 5 of 8 pork samples, and 18 of 25 milk samples tested. Shockingly, all samples of feed pellets and shredded feed were found to contain plastic, which could be the possible cause of contamination.
In 2021, American farm worker Emmanuel Moore was fired after posting a TikTok video revealing how plastic waste can pollute pig feed. Eco-toxicologist Dr. Heather Leslie, co-author of the study said, “Animals are capable of absorbing at least some of the plastic particles they are exposed to in their habitat. This study should encourage further investigation into the full extent of exposure and any associated risks.” But also, “Producing plastic-free feed for animals may be one way to improve exposure to plastic particles for livestock.”
Follow the link to read the full article.
https://www.plasticsoupfoundation.org/en/2022/07/80-of-cow-and-pig-meat-blood-and-milk-contains-plastic/
https://www.plasticsoupfoundation.org/en/2022/07/80-of-cow-and-pig-meat-blood-and-milk-contains-plastic/
Let's spread awareness and work towards a healthier, safer food system.
Microplastics have become a global environmental issue, as they have been found in almost every part of the world, including our oceans, rivers, and even in the air we breathe. While most of the attention has been focused on the impact of microplastics on the environment, new research has revealed that microplastics are also present in human blood.
A recent study conducted by the Medical University of Vienna found that microplastics were present in the blood samples of participants from eight different countries, including Finland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Poland, Russia, the United Kingdom, and Austria. The researchers analyzed the blood samples of these individuals and found that all of them contained microplastics, ranging in size from 50 to 500 micrometers.
While the long-term health effects of microplastics in human blood are still unknown, it is clear that this is a cause for concern. Microplastics can absorb and concentrate harmful chemicals, such as pesticides and heavy metals, which can then be released into the body when the particles are ingested. This can lead to a range of health problems, including inflammation, organ damage, and potentially even cancer.
While the long-term health effects of microplastics in human blood are still unknown, it is clear that this is a cause for concern. Microplastics can absorb and concentrate harmful chemicals, such as pesticides and heavy metals, which can then be released into the body when the particles are ingested. This can lead to a range of health problems, including inflammation, organ damage, and potentially even cancer.
It's important to note that the presence of microplastics in human blood is not limited to just one study. A 2019 study conducted by the University of Newcastle in Australia found that humans ingest an average of 5 grams of plastic every week, the equivalent weight of a credit card. The study also found that microplastics are present in a range of common food and drink items, including tap water, bottled water, and seafood.
The fact that microplastics are present in human blood is a stark reminder that this is not just an environmental issue, but a human health issue as well. While it may be difficult to completely eliminate microplastics from our environment, we can take steps to reduce our exposure. This includes reducing our use of single-use plastics, supporting stronger regulations on plastic production and disposal, and using water filtration systems that specifically target microplastics. Klar2O is revolutionizing the drinking water industry, with the mission to make it free from microplastics and make this technology accessible and affordable to everyone. By joining forces, we can safeguard both our planet and ourselves!
The fact that microplastics are present in human blood is a stark reminder that this is not just an environmental issue, but a human health issue as well. While it may be difficult to completely eliminate microplastics from our environment, we can take steps to reduce our exposure. This includes reducing our use of single-use plastics, supporting stronger regulations on plastic production and disposal, and using water filtration systems that specifically target microplastics. Klar2O is revolutionizing the drinking water industry, with the mission to make it free from microplastics and make this technology accessible and affordable to everyone. By joining forces, we can safeguard both our planet and ourselves!
Every day, more and more plastic is ending up in our oceans, rivers, and landfills, damaging our planet and its inhabitants. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that measure less than 5 millimeters in length. They are found in many different sources, including personal care products, clothing, and plastic packaging. While they are a major concern for human health, microplastics also have a significant impact on the environment.
Moreover, microplastics can enter the human body through drinking water, air, and food. While the long-term health effects of microplastic ingestion are still being researched, studies have shown that microplastics can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in human cells, potentially leading to diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
The issue of microplastics in water is a complex and urgent problem that requires action from all sectors of society. By reducing our use of single-use plastics, improving waste management, and investing in research, we can work towards a cleaner and safer environment for ourselves and for future generations.
We, at Klar2O, strongly believe that everyone should have access to clean and safe drinking water. Let's join forces to make a positive impact and ensure that everyone has access to the clean water they need and deserve!
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