Is there a threat to humanity from micro and nano plastics, which are now found everywhere from the sea to the mountains, and even in the human reproductive system? According to a new article, the answer is "yes": https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adl2746
The short answer is: "microplastics are widespread, accumulating in the remotest parts of our planet. There is evidence of their toxic effects at every level of biological organisation, from tiny insects at the bottom of the food chain to apex predators. Microplastics are pervasive in food and drink and have been detected throughout the human body. Evidence of their harmful effects is emerging.
The scientific evidence is now more than sufficient: collective global action is urgently needed to tackle microplastics – and the problem has never been more pressing."
So, what is to be done? Plastics are everywhere in modern society, and it is hard to imagine substitutes on a large scale. Plastics are cheap and easy to use. The first hand calculators, made of metal were like paper weights, clunky. The UN has its Global Plastics Treaty, aiming to reduce the global production of plastics. But that will get nowhere as plastics are needed for the world as we know it to continue.
Clearly technological innovations are needed so that the plastics being used do not emit microplastics. Biodegradable plastics would be one response. As well, plant-based plastics release on average nine times less microplastics than conventional plastics: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/04/240403130637.htm.
The answer to the microplastic and nano plastic threat is going to be more technological innovation to produce new products that do not produce these harmful particles. It will unfortunately probably mean an increased cost of many goods, but I think we can't avoid this one.