In anticipation of Earth Day, environmental watchdog group EcoWaste Coalition organized a seminar last April 18, 2024 in partnership with Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health Center for Research and Innovation (ACRI), University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (UP MSI), and the International Pollutants Elimination Network-Southeast and East Asia (IPEN-SEA) to talk about the prevalence and impacts of microplastics in the environment, as well as their effects on human health.

Several environmental and planetary experts provided insights on the severity of the crisis.

Microbial oceanographer Dr. Deo Florence Onda of UP MSI highlighted how plastic pollution most affects marine animals and that common seafood such as fishes and mussels available across the Philippines are likely to be contaminated with microplastics already, making them present in the food we eat.

Mr. Rodolfo Romarate II, EnP, MSc presented a study on Suspended Atmospheric Microplastics (SAMPs) wherein it was detected in 16 cities and one municipality comprising the metropolis. He shared that, “We inhale 1-2 pieces of SAMPs weekly, 6-8 SAMPs per month, and 67-88 SAMPs per year. Microplastics are now present in the air we breathe and the majority of it is from synthetic polyester found in our clothing.”

Environmental health specialist Dr. Apostol of ACRI also elaborated further on how humans are exposed to microplastics in many ways from breathing airborne microplastics to consuming them in a different array of foods and beverages. There is even the possibility of microplastics entering our body through dermal contact. Dr. Apostol highlighted how various studies done in laboratories, and in animal and human tissues have demonstrated the toxicity of microplastics to human cells and systems, potentially leading to a wide range of negative health effects.

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Alongside additional research to help develop evidence-based policy and prevention programs, the importance of community participation and engagement was emphasized to address the global microplastic problem. Mindful consumption, mindful fashion, and opting for alternatives to plastics, especially single-use plastics, are some of the few practices that can be done on an individual level.

ACRI continues to support the EcoWaste Coalition as they intensify its campaign against plastic pollution and its adverse impacts on the environment and human health. 

Read more here: Experts Highlight Impacts Of Microplastics To Environment, Human Health | Journal Online