‘Macro’ Harm of Microplastic

What is Solid Waste Management?

Those tiny little plastic pieces are more harmful than you can imagine.

Impact of Microplastic Pollution

Anything that is considered “micro” is so tiny that your eyes probably can’t even see it. Microplastic refers to little pieces of plastic that are under 5mm. They are ridiculously small but that doesn’t mean they are harmless.

By now, you probably know that we are drowning in plastic. Plastic pollution is real, and well, so is microplastic pollution. Those crazy small pieces of plastic end up in the seas and waters. You might be surprised to know that the clothes you wear that are made from synthetic fabrics, house paints and even some cosmetic products leave little traces of plastic behind.

As microplastic continues to affect sea life, we see more and more consequences of it. It might be called “microplastic,” but its impact on the environment is far from “micro.” Microplastic destroys ecosystems and takes a toll on the health of many species in the sea. For example, it can lower fertility and growth in fish and other species in the sea. Thanks to the food chain, microplastic can affect humans, also, specifically those who consume seafood. Today, microplastic pollution has such a significant impact on the environment, that we might even be breathing it.

The Impact of Microplastic PollutionLittle Changes Can Help Prevent Microplastic Pollution

You don’t need to change the world overnight to have a positive impact on the environment. Here are some of the things you can do to help prevent microplastic pollution:

  • Avoid single-use plastic as much as possible, including plastic bags, plastic utensils, etc.
  • Turn to reusable bags rather than plastic bags.
  • Minimize your waste and recycle it.
  • Be intentional and say no to plastic packaging.
  • When visiting the beach, leave it cleaner than you found it.

 

If you’re looking for trash and recycling services to your home, business, or job-site in Maryland and West Virginia, Sunrise Sanitation can help. Give us a call today for more information.

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