An average person ingests the amount of plastic equivalent to an entire credit card...Every. Single. Week.
It happens because we're exposed to so many microplastics. Microplastics not only affect humans, they've also been found in fish, wildlife, and nature.
Learn ways to avoid microplasticsso you can help protect our planet, its animals, and your long-term health!
What are Microplastics?
They're tiny pieces of plastic that shed from items in our surroundings and end up in the air, dirt, ocean, and, eventually, our bodies.
Microplastics are harmful to the planet, animals , and humans.
Fish and Shellfish
Microplastics affect fertility and organ functioning in fish and shellfish.
Animals and Humans
Recent studies indicate that microplastics may damage human and animal cells.
Common sources of microplastics include:
Paint 🎨
Makeup 💄
Beverage bottles 🧴
Clothing 👚
Ways to Avoid Microplastics at Home
In the kitchen
Use glass or metal containers and mixing bowls instead of plastic ones
Never microwave food in plastic containers or takeout boxes
Avoid non-stick pans
Reduce your consumption of shellfish
Home decor
Choose bedding and pillows that are made of natural fibers
Install wood, tile, or concrete floors instead of carpeting
Paint with eco-friendly paints
Personal care
Use natural exfoliators instead of manufactured scrubs
Buy makeup that doesn't include microbeads
Laundry
Purchase clothing made of natural fibers (wool, silk, hemp, cotton)
Use eco-friendly laundry detergent
Hang clothing to dry instead of using your dryer, when possible
When using the dryer, use laundry balls designed to collect microfibers
Ways to Avoid Microplastics Away from Home
Eating out
Bring glass containers to the restaurant for your leftovers
Get takeout coffee in your own reusable non-plastic mug
Pass on the straw, or use a paper or metal one
At the office
Bring soups and drinks in a thermos
Keep a plate, mug, and utensils in your desk drawer
Quiz: Clarice's Office
Clarice just learned about microplastics and wants to talk with her employer about some easy ways to reduce plastics at the office.
What could she suggest? Select all that apply:
A. Switch to ceramic coffee mugs instead of styrofoam ones in the break room
B. Prohibit employees from bringing plastics into the building
C. No longer offer beverages in plastic bottles in the vending machine
D. Renovate all conference rooms by removing carpeting and installing wood flooring
Quiz
Claire should select...
Take Action
Reducing microplastics in your daily life is pretty easy once you're aware of the best ways to avoid them.
Band together with your friends and family to start eliminating them from your environment!
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