Thousands of Microplastics Ingested by Humans Every Year, Even in Water

Source: National Geographic

A new study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology found that humans are ingesting upwards of 39,000 microplastics every year and inhaling more than 74,000 microplastics.

Researchers examined data on microplastics present in commonly consumed foods and created an estimate based on how often those foods are consumed by people around the world. The estimate only covers microplastics in those particular foods and doesn’t take into account all of the other foods that could have microplastics present in them.

On average, they found that those who drink bottled water are ingesting 90,000 additional microplastics, while those who drink tap water ingest 4,000 every year. Another good reason to stop using plastic bottles.

The impact of ingesting these microplastics is not entirely clear.

Read Full Story: National Geographic

Environment, News
Environment, News