Adults consume 39k to 52k microplastic particles annually: Study

Patna: Adults consume between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles annually, according to data cited during an awareness drive sponsored by the ministry of environment, forests and climate change on Tuesday. The programme was organised as part of the Mission LiFE (lifestyle for environment) movement. The event, titled ‘Invisible threats at home: Understanding indoor pollution & micro-plastics,’ was organised by the EIACP unit of the Centre for Studies on Environment and Climate and the Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS) of the Asian Development Research Institute (ADRI).Pooja Kumari, programme officer of EIACP, cited United Nations Environment Programme data stating that adults consume between 39,000 and 52,000 microplastic particles annually. These particles, ranging from 1 nanometre to 5 millimetres, originate from manufactured beauty products and the degradation of larger plastic items. Kumari added that these pollutants are found in human blood, organs, soil, oceans and the atmosphere. She said that microplastics are non-degradable and linked them to respiratory issues, immune system suppression, hormonal imbalances and thyroid disorders.Recommended measures included banning single-use plastics and replacing plastic kitchenware with steel, glass or earthenware. Kumari advised regular dusting, maintaining home ventilation and using wet cotton cloths for floor cleaning. She suggested using cloth bags for goods and cotton clothing for infants.JSS director Sandeep Kumar spoke on adopting environment-friendly lifestyles and health consciousness. EIACP-ADRI coordinator Sunil Kumar Gupta highlighted that indoor microplastic pollution levels are double those found outdoors. He advocated the immediate replacement of plastic items in kitchens. The programme was attended by 50 women trainees and organised by staff from both EIACP-ADRI and JSS.