Microplastic is a topic that continues to generate a lot of excitement and controversy. We are hearing more and more about its harmful effects on health and its presence in oceans and living organisms. But what exactly is microplastic and where does it come from? Is it really PET bottles and other plastic products Are they its main source?
We invite you to take a closer look at a topic around which a great many myths have grown.
In this article you will find answers to such questions and others:
- Definition of microplastics
- Is plastic packaging a major source of microplastics?
- What is the biggest source of microplastics?
- Challenges for the plastics processing industry
- Microplastics vs. thermoforming and in-house recycling lines
Definition of microplastics
Microplastics, as the name implies, are very fine plastic particles, whose diameter does not exceed 5 millimeters. However, the particles can be much smaller - their size can be as small as 10 microns, equivalent to 0.01 millimeter! They can occur in the environment in various forms, most often as fibers, ellipsoids, granules, shot or flakes. It's also worth noting that we distinguish between secondary microplastics, which mainly come from the decomposition of larger plastic objects, and primary microplastics, which are intentionally produced in the form of fine granules or microfibers for industrial use.
Is plastic packaging a major source of microplastics?
What is the first thing we think of when we hear about the infamous microplastic? Usually an association with PET bottles pops into our heads, as well as an image of polluted oceans. According to an opinion poll conducted by the IQS Institute for the educational campaign #rePET We, as many as 65% Poles say its main source Are plastic packaging.
But what is the truth? What are the main sources of microplastic, and what does it have to do with daily laundry and driving? While it may still seem surprising to many people, these mundane activities contribute to the significant amounts of microplastic that end up in the environment every day.
What is the biggest source of microplastics?
The largest issuers microplastic turn out to be little obvious factors for some. Which ones?
- Washing of plastics
It is estimated that the clothing industry is responsible for one-third of the microplastics in the oceans. When clothes made of synthetic materials such as polyester or nylon are washed, microscopic plastic fibers are released. These particles, called microfibers, make their way into wastewater, and traditional wastewater treatment plants are unable to completely contain them. As a result, microfibers end up in rivers, seas and oceans, where they contaminate the water and infiltrate the food chain.
- Car tire wear
Few people associate driving a car with microplastics. However, during the life of a vehicle, the surface of the tires is gradually abraded, leading to the formation of fine plastic particles. It turns out that microplastic from this process is one of the biggest sources of environmental pollution. The plastic particles end up on the roads and are then flushed by rain into drains and rivers, from where they travel to the oceans. As reported at the European Union of Earth Sciences congress in Vienna - toxic chemicals from tires can also get into the soil and contaminate food. It is estimated that annually, tire abrasion generates 6 million tons of microplastic dust.
The main sources of microplastics are therefore synthetic fabrics, which account for 35% of total emissions, and dust generated by the abrasion of car tires, which accounts for as much as 28% of emissions. Another 24% is generated by city dust. It is worth noting that plastic packaging, although often associated with plastic, is not at all a major source of microplastics.
Challenges for the plastics processing industry
Although plastic packaging is not a major source of microplastics, the problem still exists. Improper management of plastic waste leads to its entry into the environment, where it can take years to decompose and form secondary microplastics. The key challenge is to establish effective recycling systems. It is also worth noting at this point that plastic is not bad in itself. Indeed, its negative impact is due to poor waste management and the lack of effective recycling systems.
Microplastics vs. thermoforming and in-house recycling lines
The activities of companies involved in thermoforming of plastics plays a key role in reducing microplastic emissions. Investing in cutting-edge technology, such as in-house recycling and production lines, allows plastic to be processed on-site, reducing the need for transportation and emissions associated with the production of new materials. W Geo Globe Poland We aim to create a sustainable system that minimizes the environmental impact of plastics. With these solutions, we not only reduce waste, but also promote a more responsible approach to resource management.
Source:
1. https://repetujemy.pl/2023/01/03/mikroplastikwwodachniepochodzizbutelekpet/, accessed August 13, 2024.
2. https://ekonsument.pl/a67169_przemysl_modowy_a_mikroplastik_w_oceanach.html, available online: 12.08.2024.
3 Source: IUCN 2017, Primary microplastics in the oceans.
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