Scientists diligently work to assess the scope of microplastic pollution and the possible health consequences. A recent study unveiled several health hazards that these tiny plastic fragments might present as they disperse throughout the environment. The findings were printed in the journal Environment International.
Research indicates that microplastics themselves can be detrimental to our bodies, and it is also known that they absorb other toxic pollutants.
Furthermore, fresh data obtained from researchers at the University of Exeter and Plymouth Marine Laboratory in the UK suggests that microorganisms also develop biofilms on the surface of microplastics.
These biofilms (or “plastispheres”) may harbor harmful bacteria and encourage their proliferation and persistence, meaning microplastics can potentially spread pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
This creates a range of serious health perils, from the entry of disease-causing bacteria into the food chain to the increased dissemination of drug-resistant bacteria, which complicate infection treatment and raise risks during medical procedures.
“Our investigations suggest that microplastics can act as carriers for harmful pathogens and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, supporting their survival and spread,” states marine biologist Penny Lindeque from Plymouth Marine Laboratory. “This interplay constitutes an escalating jeopardy for the environment and public well-being and necessitates immediate attention.”
The researchers submerged strings of minute plastic pellets, utilized in manufacturing and water treatment, along with polystyrene pieces of a comparable size (around 4 mm), at four sites along the River system of Truro in southwest England.
The sampling spots were chosen to encompass varying expected water quality levels, based on their proximity to sewage treatment facilities and a hospital.
Tiny glass and wooden beads, as well as plastic biospheres used to host bacteria that aid in water purification, were also examined. These biospheres are intended to improve environmental conditions, but not when they leak from treatment plants into river systems, as has happened on several prior occasions.
After two months, the team scrutinized the bacteria accumulated on the different materials. Although the location of the sampling sites influenced bacterial composition more than the material type, the team pinpointed several concerns regarding the plastic particles.
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