How Much Plastic Are We Ingesting?
As climate change and the mass production of synthetic materials continues to ravage the planet, a concerning topic is beginning to come to light − the amount of plastic that we consume. It’s no secret that plastic has become an increasingly problematic pollutant, but what effects does it have on us? Plastic ingestion can have both short and long-term impacts, from direct harm to our bodies to indirect environmental concerns. So how much plastic are we actually ingesting?
What is Plastic Ingestion?
When we consume any type of artificial substance, including plastic, it is referred to as “plastic ingestion”. This is not only what happens when we physically eat plastic – drinking from a plastic water bottle, for example – but also when we are in contact with it or inhale particles from the air. We ingest plastic through a variety of mediums such as through food, water, and air – so it’s not just restricted to food and drink. Furthermore, it isn’t just microplastics that we can ingest – rather any form of plastic, both natural and synthetic.
Long-Term Health Effects
Now that we understand what plastic ingestion is and the ways in which it can be acquired, let’s take a look at the potential long-term health effects. Research has shown that consuming plastic can cause a number of different health issues, some of which can be very serious.
•Headaches: The ingestion of plastic is linked to headaches, which are most commonly caused by plastic particles and dust in the air.
•Nausea and Vomiting: Plastic particles can be inhaled, causing nausea and vomiting.
•Hormonal Disruption: Plastic has long been known to disrupt the production of certain hormones, particularly those related to reproduction.
•Cancer: Research has linked the ingestion of plastic to certain types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer.
•Chronic Diseases: Studies have also linked the ingestion of plastic to chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Short-Term Health Effects
In addition to long-term health effects, there are also a number of short-term issues associated with the ingestion of plastic. These immediate effects can range from minor discomfort to more severe conditions, and may even require medical attention.
•Stomach Pains and Diarrhea: Plastic particles can cause discomfort in the lower digestive tract, resulting in stomach pains and diarrhea.
•Respiratory Problems: Inhaling small plastic particles from the air can lead to various respiratory issues, such as asthma and bronchitis.
•Skin Irritation: Prolonged contact with plastic items, such as through daily activities, can cause skin irritation and rashes.
•Allergies: The ingestion of plastic can also lead to allergies, particularly to certain ingredients in plastic items.
•Infections: Consuming plastic can cause bacterial and fungal infections, which may range from minor to more serious conditions.
How Much Plastic Are We Ingesting?
Now that we’ve learned more about the effects of plastic ingestion, let’s take a look at the amount of plastic we’re actually consuming. It’s difficult to give a precise figure given the number of variables, however the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that Americans consume up to 174 particles of plastic per year.
Furthermore, a 2017 study from the University of Victoria found that a typical consumer of seafood will ingest an average of 4,365 microplastics per year from fish and shellfish. This amount is even higher for people who regularly eat seafood such as sushi, as the average consumption then rises to about 6,500 microplastics per year.
Whether it’s through eating, drinking, or breathing, our exposure to plastic is increasing year on year. Statistics show that the average person consumes up to 11,000 pieces of plastic each year, with fish-eaters ingesting more than twice that number.
What Can Be Done to Reduce Plastic Ingestion?
Fortunately, there are a number of measures that can be taken to reduce plastic ingestion.
•Choose Natural Materials: Whenever possible, opt for natural materials rather than plastic. Wooden cutlery, cotton bags, and metal water bottles are all great alternatives to plastic items.
•Switch to Reusable Containers: Plastic water bottles are a common household item, but by investing in a reusable bottle, you can reduce both plastic use and your plastic ingestion.
•Avoid Processed Foods: Processed foods often contain high amounts of plastic packaging, so opt for fresh and organic produce instead.
•Filter Your Tap Water: Some studies have found that tap water can contain microplastics, so invest in a filter and opt for filtered water whenever possible.
•Stay away from Single-Use Plastic: This should be obvious, but avoid single-use plastic as much as possible. Carry reusable shopping bags, carry a thermos rather than purchasing single-use hot drinks, and opt for glass or stainless steel straws instead.
• Reduce Your Plastic Waste: Of course, reducing plastic waste is essential for reducing plastic ingestion. Whenever possible bin or recycle plastic items, and look for ways to reduce plastic packaging and disposable items.
Plastic ingestion is becoming a growing concern, with the average American ingesting up to 174 particles per year. There is a range of long- and short-term health effects associated with plastic consumption, from nausea and vomiting to hormone disruption and cancer. Thankfully, there are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce plastic consumption, from switching to natural materials and reusable containers, to avoiding single-use items and reducing plastic waste. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind the indirect health implications of plastic consumption, in terms of its impact on the environment.
We all play our part in protecting the planet, and so it’s crucial that we take measures to reduce our plastic consumption.
