Scientific Study Says Humans Are Consuming An Entire Credit Card's Worth Of Plastic A Week
You might be wondering how - it’s through microplastics. Microplastics are formed by larger plastics eroding over creating tiny pieces that measure less than 5 millimeters across. Others are using them intentionally such as microbeads in cosmetics.
A Study done by Environmental Science and Technology, estimates that annual microplastics consumption and inhalation ranges from 39,000 to 121,000 particles per year. That number increases by 50,000 more particles if you're drinking from a plastic water bottle vs tap water. And according to the Yale School of the Environment, that number is likely a drastic underestimate since meat, dairy, grains, and vegetables weren't included in the study for their microplastic contamination. Scientist’s also say that they can't calculate out how much plastic might be entering our bodies from plastic food packaging.
If you want to reduce how much microplastics you're eating, drinking and breathing, here are 3 easy steps you can take now...
- Buy natural cleansers in bulk, and refill the containers you already have.
- Use reusable water bottles, forks, knives,and grocery bags.
- Separate your food waste and compost it, or hire a company to do it for you.