15 Ways to Generate Less Micro Plastic

In the last article, we learned about the anatomy of the micro plastic. What they are and how they affect the individual. We also went through briefly on how they get made. In this article we are going to talk about, we as an individual can take some measure not to generate these micro plastics. 

Micro and nano plastics are everywhere, they are in the water we drink, food we eat and the air that we breathe. Before going into the details of how we can minimize generating plastic, let’s understand how we end up creating them. 

Let’s dive in.

How do we generate micro and nano plastic?

Microplastics and nanoplastics are created through a variety of processes, both intentional and unintentional. Here’s a breakdown of how these small plastic particles come into existence:

1. Breakdown of Larger Plastic Debris

The most common way microplastics and nanoplastics are formed is through the physical, chemical, and biological degradation of larger plastic items. This occurs when items like plastic bags, bottles, and packaging are exposed to environmental factors such as:

• Sunlight (UV radiation): Ultraviolet light from the sun can break down plastics, causing them to become brittle and fragment into smaller pieces.
• Mechanical Action: Waves, wind, and physical abrasion from sediments can wear down plastic debris into smaller particles.
• Chemical Degradation: Exposure to pollutants and other chemicals can weaken the chemical bonds in plastics, leading to their breakdown.

2. Industrial Processes

Mircoplastic can also be generated during the manufacturing and processing of plastics. For instance:

• Cutting and Molding: During the cutting, drilling, or shaping of plastic materials, very small particles can be produced.
• Product Wear and Tear: Industrial use of plastic components can result in the generation of fine plastic dust through wear and tear.

3. Intentionally Manufactured Microplastics

Some microplastics are intentionally manufactured for specific uses, such as:

• Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Microbeads used in exfoliating scrubs, toothpaste, and similar products are classic examples of intentionally created microplastics.
• Industrial Applications: Microplastics are used in industrial processes and products, such as blasting media, plastic powders for molding, and additive manufacturing.

4. Textiles and Clothing

Every time clothes made from synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, or acrylic are washed, tiny fibers can detach from the fabric and enter the wastewater system. These are a significant source of microplastic pollution.

5. Waste Processing

Microplastics can also be generated during the recycling and processing of plastic waste, where cutting, shredding, and melting of plastics may emit small particles.

6. Road Wear

Tires, which contain synthetic rubbers and plastics, generate microplastics through abrasion with road surfaces. These particles can become airborne or washed into waterways.

This widespread generation reflects the deep integration of plastic materials into modern life, often occurring through mechanisms beyond direct individual control.If you want to know more, read this blog - 

Microplastics and nanoplastics are formed through a variety of largely unavoidable human activities but still there are ways by which we can contribute and avoid generating them. 

Let’s find them out. 

15 ways to generate less micro plastic

Individuals and households can play a significant role in reducing the formation of microplastics and nanoplastics. Here are ten practical ways to make a difference:

1. Choose Natural Fibers: Opt for clothing and other textiles made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, or bamboo instead of synthetic fibers that shed microplastics when washed.
2. Use a Fiber Filter: Install a filter on your washing machine to capture synthetic fibers. Alternatively, use a laundry bag designed to catch microfibers from synthetic clothes during washing.
3. Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Reduce reliance on single-use plastics such as bags, straws, and packaged products. Opt for reusable alternatives whenever possible.
4. Buy Bulk When Possible: Purchasing food and other products in bulk can reduce the need for plastic packaging, which degrades into microplastics.
5. Properly Dispose of Plastic Waste: Ensure that all plastic waste is properly disposed of or recycled to prevent it from breaking down in the environment.
6. Use Reusable Containers: Reduce reliance on single-use plastics by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers. 
7. Buy Sustainable Products: Support brands that prioritize sustainability in their products and packaging. Look for products packaged in biodegradable materials or those that adhere to sustainable practices.
8. Support Legislation: Advocate for and support legislation that aims to reduce plastic pollution and encourage the development and use of biodegradable materials.
9. Educate Yourself and Others: Increase your awareness and inform others about the sources and impacts of microplastics, encouraging more sustainable lifestyle choices.
10. Avoid Products with Microbeads: Avoid personal care products that contain polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), or nylon.
11. Participate in Community Clean-Ups: Engage in local efforts to clean up beaches, parks, and rivers to help remove plastic waste and prevent it from degrading into microplastics.
12. Use Eco-Friendly Car Tires: Choose tires designed to reduce particle emissions or last longer, as tire wear is a major source of microplastic pollution.
13. Avoid Plastic Utensils and Dinnerware: Use metal, glass, or bamboo utensils and dinnerware instead of plastic versions to decrease reliance on disposable plastic products that can break down into microplastics.
14. Repair Instead of Replace: Whenever possible, repair items like clothing, toys, and household goods instead of replacing them. This reduces the waste of synthetic materials that can degrade into microplastics.
15. Use Natural Cleaning Products: Opt for cleaning products that do not contain synthetic polymers. Many conventional cleaning products include ingredients that can contribute to microplastic pollution.

So the challenge of microplastic and nanoplastic pollution might seem daunting due to their pervasive presence and complex sources, individual actions can significantly impact reducing this environmental issue. 

By adopting more sustainable practices such as choosing natural fibers, reducing single-use plastics, and supporting environmental legislation, each one of us can contribute to a larger, collective effort to mitigate plastic pollution. These changes, though small on an individual level, can cumulatively lead to significant environmental benefits. 

If not for us, let's do it for our future generation. 

In the next article we will discuss the adverse effects of plastic on the human body, society, climate and ecosystem. 

Till then stay tuned, we are publishing one article each week to make people aware of the problem that we have on our plate.