Syllabus
GS Paper 3 – Environmental conservation; Environmental pollution and degradation; Environmental Impact Assessment.
Context
Microplastics and nanoplastics are an emerging threat to humans.
Source
Down to Earth | Editorial dated 6th June 2024
Microplastics and Nanoplastics
Plastics have become an integral part of modern life, infiltrating every corner of our environment, from oceans to the air we breathe. The production of plastics is rising and is expected to continue until 2050. This pervasive presence has led to significant environmental contamination through ocean currents, atmospheric winds, and terrestrial processes. As plastics degrade, they form microplastics and nanoplastics [MNP], particles that induce various toxic effects.
What are Microplastics and Nanoplastics?
- Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters, while nanoplastics are even smaller, less than 1,000 nanometers in size.
- Sources:
- Primary Microplastics: Produced intentionally for use in products like cosmetics, clothing fibers, and industrial processes.
- Secondary Microplastics: Result from the breakdown of larger plastic items due to environmental exposure and wear.
- Found in various environments, including oceans, rivers, soil, and even the air we breathe.
What is Plastic Degradation?
- Environmental Degradation: Plastics degrade under sunlight (photodegradation), physical abrasion, and microbial action.
- Microplastic Formation: Large plastic debris fragments into smaller pieces over time, creating microplastics and nanoplastics.
- Chemical Degradation: Plastics can release toxic chemicals as they break down, contributing to environmental pollution.
Impacts of MNP
- Human Health:
- MNPs can enter the human body via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption.
- Presence detected in placenta, lungs, liver, breast milk, urine, and blood.
- Recent studies link MNPs to cardiovascular diseases.
- Cardiovascular Risks:
- Studies found MNPs in carotid artery plaques, associated with higher risks of myocardial infarction, stroke, and death.
- Polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride commonly found in these plaques.
- Environmental Impact:
- Adverse effects on marine life and ecosystems.
- Toxic effects include ingestion by marine animals, leading to physical harm and exposure to toxic chemicals.
- Contamination of soil and freshwater systems, affecting terrestrial and aquatic life.
Status of MNP in India
- India’s increasing plastic use and inadequate waste management contribute significantly to MNP pollution.
- Studies reveal alarming levels in freshwater ecosystems like rivers and lakes, with major rivers like the Ganges carrying billions of MPs daily.
Government Initiatives to control plastic waste
Challenges in dealing with MNPs
- Limited Data:
- While research is ongoing, there’s a lack of comprehensive data on the overall impact of MNPs on Indian ecosystems and human health.
- Waste Management:
- Inadequate waste management infrastructure allows plastic to leak into the environment,breaking down into microplastics.
- Limited Research:
- Research on nanoplastics in India is in its early stages.
- Due to their smaller size, MNPs pose a potentially greater threat as they can enter cells and cause unknown health problems.
Way Forward
- Enhanced Research:
- Comprehensive studies on the health impacts of MNPs, particularly on cardiovascular diseases.
- Investigations into the mechanisms of MNPs toxicity.
- Policy Implementation:
- Stricter regulations on plastic production and use.
- Specific measures to combat MNP’s are the need of the hour
- Encouraging the development and adoption of biodegradable alternatives.
- Strengthening waste management systems and recycling programs.
- Public Awareness and Education:
- Campaigns to educate the public about the dangers of plastic pollution.
- Promoting sustainable lifestyle choices and reducing plastic consumption.
- International Cooperation:
- Global efforts to tackle plastic pollution through international agreements and collaborations.
- Sharing of best practices and technologies for plastic waste management and mitigation of health impacts.
- Innovation and Technology:
- Development of new materials and technologies to replace conventional plastics.
- Improvement in detection and removal methods for MNPs from the environment and human bodies.
- Economic Incentives:
- Providing subsidies and incentives for companies to develop and use eco-friendly materials.
- Encouraging investment in sustainable waste management infrastructure.
Conclusion
The alarming spread of plastics in our environment and their subsequent breakdown into microplastics and nanoplastics has far-reaching implications. As we continue to grapple with the widespread contamination of our environment by plastics, prioritizing efforts to reduce exposure and develop safer alternatives is imperative.
Related PYQ
What are the impediments in disposing the huge quantities of discarded solid wastes which are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the toxic wastes that have been accumulating in our habitable environment? [ UPSC Civil Services Exam – Mains 2018]
Practice Question
What are microplastics and nano plastics? Discuss its impact on human health and environment. [250 words]