A 2019 experiment by toxicologist Matthew Campen and his son in the San Juan Mountains of northern New Mexico revealed microplastics in forest water samples, contradicting expectations of pristine natural environments.
Campen collected water samples from both urban areas around Albuquerque and a seemingly untouched forest. The results showed that even near the headwaters of the Rio Grande, microplastics were present, mirroring findings from British marine biologist Richard Thompson’s 2004 paper on microplastics.
Thompson’s research found that microplastic abundance has increased significantly since the 1960s by comparing modern plankton samples with ancient ones. Microplastics have also been linked to health issues, including lung damage in textile workers and interstitial lung disease among those handling nylon flock.
Despite the presence of toxic plastics, some materials are essential or beneficial for our safety. Plastics used in tires, medical equipment, and bike helmets save lives and reduce mortality rates. To mitigate microplastic pollution, efforts should focus on eliminating easily replaceable products like single-use bags and excessive packaging, which contribute to a fast-paced, wasteful lifestyle.
Source: https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/what-are-microplastics-harmful-to-humans-how-to-avoid.html