Microplastics in bottled water: what are, types and how to eliminate them

We call microplastics (MP) to those Plastic particles that present a size less than 5 mm that are found in surface waters, oceans and even in various organisms. At present it is estimated that around 245 million tons per year Microplastics reach the bodies of water mainly through the wastewater of the water treatment plants (PTAR) and the spills of urban areas, sanitary landfills and industrial areas.

By presenting such small size and flotability, these microplastics They are not removed And they end up being released to rivers, streams, lagoons, lakes and oceans. There is another possible source of these tiny plastics: accidental discharges such as those produced in the oceans during the transport of plastic resins pellets.

In addition to environmental pollution, these microplastics can enter the water bottled by the degradation of plastic containers or during the bottling process. Researchers from the Network Enviroplanet, composed of several Spaniards specialized in plastic pollution, have published a study in the journal Scientific Reports⁽¹⁾ which analyzes the presence of microplastics in bottled water. In this study, bottles of five of the main bottled water brands were analyzed, which account for 40% of the market. For each brand, a total of 45 liters of water were processed, contained in 1.5 -liter plastic bottles (PET).

Microplastics can originate from two different sources:

• Primary: They are manufactured plastics with a size less than 5 mm. These include industrial pellets, plastic fragments included in personal care products such as toothpaste, bath gels and skin care products such as exfoliant formulation.
• Secondary: Those produced as a consequence of physical degradation (heat, UV light), chemistry (oxidation) and/or microbial degradation of larger plastics or fibers, which reach the environment due to inefficient waste management.

MPs have different origins and are composed of different plastic materials, including:

• Pieces resulting from the Degradation of bulky plastics made with polyethylene such as plastic bags and bottles, polystyrene (present in food containers), nylon, polypropylene (fabrics) or polyvinyl chloride (plastic pipes).
• Small plastic spheres used in the manufacture of soft toys and pillows.
• Microsphereswhich are added to personal care products (such as toothpaste), to give color, brightness or even as a filling material.

We recommend reading this article about the types of plastics.

Effects on humans

Microplastics in bottled water can generate various concerns for human health. Although studies on direct effects on humans are still limited, the continuous ingestion of these particles could have biological consequences. The MP are capable of adsorbing toxic pollutants present in the environment, such as heavy metals or chemical substances, which They could free themselves to the organism After consumption. Although there is no conclusive evidence about its bioaccumulation in humans, it is feared that, as in other organisms, they could affect long -term health.

Effects on aquatic and land organisms

Microplastics affect a wide variety of aquatic and land organisms, including companion animals. When ingested, these small fragments can obstruct the digestive system, causing animals to stop feeding and, in severe cases, die from starvation. Vertebrates and invertebrates, such as fish, birds and zooplankton, are affected, which alters food chains and biodiversity. Companies, such as dogs and cats, can also be exposed to MP through water and food, with risks of digestive obstructions and internal damage.

In addition, microplastics have the ability to transport toxic pollutants that adhere to them, which aggravates the negative effects on wild and domestic fauna. This prolonged exposure can cause skin damage, ulcerations in internal organs and affect the general health of animalsreducing its capacity for reproduction, mobility and survival. Although there is still more research on long -term effects, it is clear that the presence of microplastics in the environment has a significant impact on animal health.

Studies reveal that seals with PCBs concentrations have been found above 1370 parts per billion because they consume contaminated fish with toxins and plastics. In turn, the presence of MP in mussels, sea cucumbers, fish, birds, turtles and many marine mammals have been found.

Effect on ecosystems

In the marine environment there is half of the primary production of the planet, which provides the necessary energy to house a rich biodiversity. In addition, marine ecosystems are carbon sinks and the base of the economic livelihood of many countries thanks to tourism and fishing. However, human activities that include microplastic pollution, damage these ecosystems preventing natural processes from being carried out and causing the affectation of wildlife, the ecological system and human health.

While it is very complex to eliminate microplastics completely there are alternatives that help us reduce their presence in the environment. Among them:

• Reduces the use of plastics: Especially disposable plastics such as water bottles, sorbets and vessels. Opting glass bottles for bottled water is a safer and more sustainable option, since it prevents the release of plastic particles that come from plastic containers. You may also be interested to know how to purify water at home to drink.
• Reject plastics: Consumers have a great challenge when buying different products since it is very important to choose those that have as much plastic content as possible. The more plastics we reject in the market, the less MP will be generated in the future.
• Promote circular fashion: Opting for fashion products that are sustainable and made from recyclable materials not only helps reduce the amount of plastic waste, but also promotes the circular economy in which materials are reintroduced into the market instead of transforming into waste.
• Share information: About this problem in social networks to generate awareness and critical thinking.

Now that you know what microplastics are in bottled water, we recommend this article on water pollution: causes and consequences.

If you want to read more articles similar to Microplastics in bottled water: what are, types and how to eliminate themwe recommend that you enter our pollution category.