In recent years, a silent menace has emerged, threatening the environment and human health. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than five millimetres in size, have infiltrated oceans, soil, and even the air we breathe. According to the Royal Centre for Disease Control, harmful chemicals found in plastics can disrupt hormones, affect reproductive health, and hinder growth and development.
From additives used to enhance plastic durability to the everyday items we use, microplastics are found everywhere. Their widespread presence has raised growing concerns for both the environment and human health.
According to the Royal Centre for Disease Control, harmful additives such as bisphenol A and phthalates are added to plastics to enhance durability and flexibility and make them fire-resistant.
However, the centre says these substances are recognised as toxic chemicals.
“Toxic chemicals found in plastics are known as endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with our hormonal system, affect our reproductive system, and impact growth and development,” said Pema Chophel, Deputy Chief Laboratory Officer Royal Centre for Disease Control.
He added that exposing a plastic container to heat and direct sunlight for a longer duration can cause toxic chemicals to come out.
Microplastics come from various sources, including artificial clothing fibres, tyre dust, cosmetics, and the breakdown of larger plastic items.
Meanwhile, people are concerned about the health risks of reusing single-use plastics.
“I avoid using plastic products because I was taught about the bacteria and diseases that can be transmitted through reusing single-use plastics,” said Yeshi Phuntsho Wangchuk, a resident of Haa.
“I have been reusing single-use plastics three or four times, and I had no idea about the potential health risks,” said Dawa Dorji Tamang, a resident of Thimphu.
Little is known about the impact of microplastics on human health and their toxic effects. And current evidence from the World Health Organisation suggests they are unlikely to cause significant health problems.
There are major knowledge gaps in scientific understanding of the impact of microplastics, and the existing evidence is low to determine any direct harmful effects.
Meanwhile, to reduce the risk of microplastics, it is important to limit the use of single-use plastics and choose alternatives like reusable bags made from other materials.
“The use of plastics is inevitable. So, we have to depend on plastic, but what we can do to minimise the risk of microplastics is to avoid single-use plastics and try to limit the use of such plastics,” added Pema Chophel, Deputy Chief Laboratory Officer, Royal Centre for Disease Control.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme, approximately 400 million tonnes of plastic waste are produced globally each year.
If this trend continues, global production of new plastic is expected to reach over a billion tonnes by 2050.
Dechen Choden
Edited by Sonam Pem
