Microplastics in drinking water
Microplastics have become a ubiquitous presence in our environment, including in the water we consume daily. These tiny particles, often less than 5 millimeters in size, are increasingly found in drinking water sources around the world. While it may be nearly impossible to completely avoid microplastics, there are steps we can take to minimize our exposure and reduce their potential harmful effects on our health.Ways to reduce microplastics
1. Filter your tap water: Using a high-quality water filter can help remove some microplastic particles from your drinking water. Look for filters that are specifically designed to capture small particles, including microplastics. 2. Avoid single-use plastics: One of the primary sources of microplastics is single-use plastics such as plastic bottles, bags, and straws. By reducing our reliance on these items, we can decrease the overall production and disposal of plastics, ultimately reducing the presence of microplastics in the environment. 3. Choose natural fibers: When it comes to clothing, opt for natural fibers like cotton, wool, and hemp instead of synthetic ones. Synthetic fibers, such as polyester and nylon, shed microplastic particles when laundered, contributing to the contamination of water sources. 4. Be mindful of microbeads: Many personal care products, such as facial scrubs and toothpaste, used to contain tiny plastic beads known as microbeads. These beads have now been banned in several countries due to their environmental impact. Make sure to check the ingredient lists of your personal care products and choose alternatives that are microbead-free. 5. Avoid synthetic glitter: Glitter is made from small pieces of microplastic and is commonly used in arts and crafts, cosmetics, and clothing. Opt for biodegradable alternatives or glitter-free options whenever possible to reduce the release of microplastics into the environment. 6. Dispose of waste properly: Improper waste management can lead to the release of microplastics into water bodies. Always dispose of your waste in designated recycling or trash bins, and consider participating in community clean-ups to prevent plastic pollution. 7. Support policies and initiatives: Advocate for stronger regulations and policies to reduce plastic pollution and microplastic contamination. Support organizations that work towards plastic waste reduction and engage in initiatives that promote sustainable practices.How to minimize microplastics
While it may not be possible to completely eliminate microplastics from our lives, we can all play a part in minimizing our contribution to their presence in the environment. By making conscious choices and adopting eco-friendly habits, we can reduce our exposure to microplastics and contribute to a healthier planet for future generations. Remember, every small step counts. Together, we can make a difference and help create a world with fewer microplastics and a cleaner, safer water supply.
Most of the studies devoted to this issue do not meet the quality criteria developed for the analysis of microplastics, therefore their results should be treated with caution.
According to environmentalists, by 2017 around 8.3 billion tons of plastic were produced in the world and about 6.3 billion tons were thrown out.
Plastic waste is gradually destroyed and disintegrated into microparticles (smaller than 0.5 millimeters) that pollute the water, including plumbing, soil and air.
It is believed that the potential danger can come not only from the particles themselves, but also from toxic contaminants and pathogens that can accumulate on them.
For example, the authors of a study in mice showed that animals fed microplastic water developed liver inflammation.
However, the concentration of particles in drinking water, which was used in the experiments, was five times higher than in tap water.
The pollution in the river has a food chain effect on humans.
Fishes or other species in the rivers ingest many particles including the micro-plastics.
And, when humans eat those fishes, these small tiny particles of micro-plastics can accumulate in human body causing damage.
The union government, although, supplements the efforts of state governments in the abatement of pollution in rivers.
With this objective, the union government collaborates with state governments under the National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) on a cost-sharing basis for rivers other than Ganga and its tributaries.
For Ganga and its tributaries, the central government had already launched Namami Gange in 2014 with the total budgetary outlay of Rs 20,000 crore.
Socks are becoming an area of diplomacy and wake-signaling -the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau might be the highest-profile to use socks in this way, preferring explicitly themed ones for publishing for public events.
Or a telling glimpse into a political vision: Boris Johnson was recently blamed for not cleaning his fortunate socks, adorned with King Ashurbanipal, a monarch of the Neo-Assyrian empire, frequently enough.
For a few years, classic statement socks have indeed been quite huge in style.
There is a good sock choice for everyone, considering the abundance of styles.
Also do not dump your old socks out but instead wash them in a guppy pouch to ensure that you do not leach microplastics when you wash them.
It is not always important to cover your ankles in the post-Victorian era, but the continuing love of fashion with athletic shoes means that socks are still the key, if you do not need an uncomfortable waft.
