Blog - Plastic Education

Plastics in Our Body & Health Implications

Growing Evidence Links Bodily Plastics to Disease

Accumulating research confirms what we have suspected for a long time – plastic particles and the chemicals they contain are not merely environmental pollutants but have found their way into the human body, where they are increasingly being linked to a range of adverse health effects and diseases. Microplastics (less than 5 mm in size) and nanoplastics (even smaller, less than 1 micrometer) are entering our bodies through ingestion, inhalation, and potentially dermal contact, raising significant concerns among the scientific and medical communities.

Once inside the body, these plastic particles have been detected in various organs and tissues, including the lungs, gut, blood, placenta, and even the brain. The potential mechanisms by which plastics may contribute to disease are multifaceted and include:

Inflammation: The physical presence of plastic particles can trigger immune responses, leading to chronic inflammation in tissues and organs. This persistent inflammation is a known contributor to a variety of diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain cancers.
Oxidative Stress and Cellular Damage: Plastics and their associated chemicals can induce oxidative stress, an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. This can damage cells, DNA, and proteins, potentially leading to a breakdown in normal physiological function and the development of diseases.
Leaching of Chemical Additives: Plastics contain numerous chemical additives to provide them with specific properties (e.g., flexibility, durability, color). Many of these additives, such as phthalates and bisphenols (like BPA), are known endocrine disruptors. These chemicals can interfere with the body’s hormonal system, which regulates crucial processes like metabolism, growth, development, and reproduction. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to reproductive disorders, metabolic diseases (like diabetes and obesity), neurological issues, and hormone-sensitive cancers.
Disruption of the Microbiome: Emerging research suggests that ingested plastics may alter the composition and function of the gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in our digestive tract. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for various aspects of health, including digestion, immune function, and even mental well-being.¹ Disruptions to this delicate balance have been implicated in inflammatory bowel disease and other health problems.
Physical Effects: In some cases, the physical shape and size of plastic particles, particularly fibers, may cause physical irritation or blockage in tissues.

While the exact long-term consequences of plastic accumulation in the human body are still under extensive investigation, studies are beginning to draw concerning associations between plastic exposure and specific health conditions. These include:

Respiratory Issues: Inhaled plastic particles can contribute to inflammation and damage in the lungs, potentially exacerbating conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and in occupational settings with high exposure, have been linked to fibrosis and lung cancer.
Cardiovascular Disease: Microplastics have been found in arterial plaque, and some studies suggest a correlation between the presence of plastics and an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular mortality. Plastic additives, particularly phthalates, have also been linked to increased cardiovascular risk.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Ingested plastics may contribute to inflammation and changes in the gut, potentially playing a role in inflammatory bowel disease and other digestive issues.
Reproductive and Developmental Problems: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals leaching from plastics are a significant concern for reproductive health, with potential links to reduced fertility, abnormal development of reproductive organs, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Metabolic Disorders: Exposure to endocrine-disrupting plastic additives has been associated with an increased risk of obesity and diabetes.
Neurological Effects: Some research, primarily in animal studies, suggests that very small plastic particles (nanoplastics) may be able to cross the blood-brain barrier and potentially contribute to neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment. Certain plastic additives have also been linked to neurodevelopmental issues.
Cancer: While the evidence is still developing, some studies suggest potential links between exposure to certain plastic chemicals and an increased risk of specific cancers.

It is important to note that the field of research on the health impacts of plastics in the human body is relatively young, and much remains to be understood about the dose, duration, and type of plastic exposure that poses the greatest risk. However, the trend on how plastic pollution can impact human health is clear. Why wait until the evidence is overwhelming before reducing plastic exposure?

Microplastics Found in Human Brains — And They’re Increasing Over Time

We all know plastic is everywhere. It’s in our oceans, our food, even in the air. But now, a new study has shown it’s also in our brains.

A team of scientists from the University of New Mexico and other institutions analyzed human organs — specifically, the brain, liver, and kidneys — from people who passed away in 2016 and 2024. They wanted to see if tiny plastic particles, known as microplastics and nanoplastics, were making their way into human tissue. The results were surprising and a bit unsettling.

What Did They Find?

Microplastics were found in all three organs, but the brain had the highest levels.

The most common type of plastic found was polyethylene — the stuff used in plastic bags and packaging.

People who died in 2024 had more plastic in their organs than those who died in 2016 — suggesting that microplastics are building up in our bodies as plastic pollution grows.

Brains from people who had dementia showed even higher plastic levels than those without — particularly around blood vessels and immune cells.

How Do These Plastics Get There?

Researchers still don’t know for sure, but they suspect tiny plastic fragments are:

Inhaled or ingested through food, water, or air.
Carried through the bloodstream.
Somehow crossing the blood-brain barrier, the brain’s natural defense system.

What Does This Mean for Our Health?

Right now, it’s too early to say if these plastics cause health problems like dementia. This study only shows a connection, not a cause. But the fact that microplastics are ending up in our brains — and in higher amounts than before — is enough to raise concern.

Why It Matters

Plastic pollution isn’t just an environmental issue — it’s a human health issue, too. As plastic continues to break down into smaller and smaller pieces, it becomes harder to avoid. This study is one of the first to show just how deep it might be going — right into our most sensitive organ.

Plastic Free Rivers – Small Actions with Big Impacts

There’s something special about time spent on a river.

Maybe it’s the silence. Maybe it’s the slow pace. The water pulls you along, and for a while, everything else falls away. Fishing, kayaking, boating, tubing, or just watching—it doesn’t really matter what you’re doing. The river gives you a chance to let go. To feel small, but in a good way.

But lately, I’ve noticed something that snaps me out of that feeling.

Plastic.

A crushed bottle lodged between rocks. A chip bag drifting in an eddy. Single use bags tangled in branches along the bank. It’s subtle at first. Easy to ignore. But once you notice it, it’s hard to unsee. And once it starts, you see it everywhere.

This isn’t about a single careless act. It’s about a buildup. A slow, steady accumulation of small moments of irresponsibility—someone dropping trash in a parking lot, a bag flying out of a truck bed, a snack wrapper left near a trailhead. All of it adds up. Most of it ends up in the water.

The River Is Supposed to Be an Escape

When I’m out there, I want to feel connected—to nature, to myself, to something real. That’s why we go, right? To get away from the noise. The stress. The screens.

But seeing garbage in the water pulls you right back to the world you came to forget. It’s a reminder of how careless we’ve become. And it messes with the whole experience.

You’re floating along, feeling free. Then you see a plastic bag caught in a tree like a ghost. It’s a small thing, but it changes the feeling.

Plastic Doesn’t Disappear

The problem with plastic is it lasts. It doesn’t break down the way natural materials do. And it travels. What starts on a street miles away can wash into a storm drain, into a creek, then into a river. It doesn’t matter where the littering happened—the river collects it.

We tend to think of rivers as self-cleaning. Flowing water has a way of making everything seem fresh. But the truth is, once plastic gets in, it stays. It gets tangled, buried, stuck. It harms wildlife. It pollutes the water. And it pollutes the experience.

Tragedy of the Commons

There’s a concept called the tragedy of the commons. It’s what happens when a shared resource gets damaged because everyone assumes someone else will take care of it.

That’s exactly what’s happening with rivers.

People think: it’s just one piece of trash. One bottle. One wrapper. But when thousands of people think that way, we end up with what we have now—rivers that look more like drainage ditches than the clean, wild places they used to be.

No one sets out to ruin the river. But in the absence of responsibility, that’s what’s happening.

The Damage Adds Up

This isn’t just about aesthetics. Plastic pollution hurts wildlife. Fish and birds eat it. It gets stuck in their stomachs and they die. It leaches chemicals into the water. It disrupts the ecosystem.

But even beyond the environmental cost, there’s a human cost.

The feeling of being on a river—the peace, the beauty, the escape—that’s a fragile thing. When the banks are trashed and the water carries litter, that feeling slips away. What should be a refuge starts to feel tainted.

Becoming More Aware

I’m not perfect. I’ve forgotten trash in the past. I’ve let things slip. But I’m trying to be more mindful now.

Because small habits matter.

Pack out what you pack in.
Pick up a few extra pieces of trash, even if it’s not yours.
Be aware of where your trash could end up, even if you’re not near a river.

And maybe most importantly—talk about it. If you don’t want to be the one to talk about it with friends, you can quietly and humbly set an example by picking up a few pieces when out in the wilderness with others. Just be the kind of person who treats the river like something worth protecting.

The River Deserves Better

I think about what a clean river feels like.

The way the light dances on the water. The sound of wind in the trees. The satisfaction of a quiet cast or a smooth paddle stroke. A place where you can breathe deeply.

That’s what we’re trying to protect. Not just the ecosystem—but the experience.

And it starts with awareness.

The Impact of Microplastics in the Philippines

Microplastics in the Philippines – How Bad Is It?

Microplastics are found in various areas in the Philippines—in the soil, marine ecosystems, and even the atmosphere. From Metro Manila’s main rivers to the country’s largest freshwater lake, and even its pristine coastal seas, these tiny fragments are everywhere.

Read the full article of microplastics in the Philippines, their sources, and the problems they cause.

Environmental Impact of Microplastics in the Philippines

The Philippines faces an escalating environmental threat from microplastic pollution. These tiny particles disrupt ecosystems, harm marine life, and infiltrate the food chain, posing risks to both wildlife and Filipinos. From contaminating coral reefs in the Coral Triangle to affecting the most consumed Philippine fish species (Tilapia), the impacts are widespread and alarming.

Read the full article to learn about how microplastics affect the environment and what actions can help combat this growing issue.

Health Impact of Microplastics in the Philippines

Microplastics have infiltrated the air, water, and food consumed by Filipinos, posing serious health risks. From seafood contamination to airborne particles in Metro Manila, these tiny plastics are linked to cardiovascular risks, placental issues, and immune system disruptions.

Read the full article to find out how microplastics affect human health and the actions needed to protect Filipinos from this growing threat.

How Widespread Are Microplastics in the Philippines?

In 2015, the Philippines was identified as the third-largest contributor to plastic pollution worldwide, generating approximately 2.7 million metric tons of plastic waste annually. Much of this plastic deteriorates into microplastics—tiny fragments nearly impossible to clean up.

This article delves into the presence of microplastics in the Philippines, focusing on where they are commonly found, their sources, and the problems they create.

Where Are Microplastics Commonly Found in the Philippines?

Due to their small size and lightweight nature, microplastics are incredibly pervasive. The wind can carry them, wash them into drainage systems, leach into the soil, or even enter the human body. Understanding their presence in specific regions of the Philippines can help us understand the scale of this issue.

Metro Manila

Metro Manila, the capital region of the Philippines, generates approximately 3 million metric tons of solid waste annually, the highest in the country. This waste significantly contributes to microplastic pollution, particularly in rivers.

A 2021 study investigated the presence of microplastics in five rivers that flow throughout Metro Manila into Manila Bay:

Cañas River (Cavite): Drains into southeastern Manila Bay and is surrounded by informal settlements.
Meycauayan River (Bulacan): Passes through areas with plastic manufacturing industries and is heavily polluted.
Parañaque River (Metro Manila): Flows into the western-central part of Manila Bay, near a seafood market and critical wetland habitat.
Pasig River (Metro Manila): Drains into the eastern Manila Bay, near the Manila port.
Tullahan River (Metro Manila) Empties into northern Manila Bay and is surrounded by residential areas and industrial zones.

The study revealed alarming findings, with 1,580 to 57,665 microplastic particles per cubic meter in surface water and 386 to 1,357 particles per kilogram in sediment. Microplastics primarily originated from degraded plastic products like packaging and packaging. Predominant materials included polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene, commonly used in food containers and fishing gear.

Adding to this, a 2023 study revealed that Metro Manila’s atmosphere is also contaminated with microplastics, varying concentrations across the region. The highest levels were found in Muntinlupa City and Mandaluyong City. Polyester fibers comprised 74% of the detected microplastics and were the most common type, mainly from clothing materials. This highlights that microplastic pollution in Metro Manila is not confined to its rivers and water bodies but also affects the air, posing additional challenges to urban environmental management.

Laguna de Bay

Laguna de Bay, the Philippines’ largest freshwater lake, is vital for agriculture, fishing, and local livelihoods. However, pollution from improper waste disposal and industrial activities has severely affected the lake.

A 2022 study identified around 14.29 microplastic particles per cubic meter in Laguna de Bay’s waters. These particles were predominantly polypropylene fibers, likely from disposable face masks extensively used during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings highlight the indirect effects of global events on local ecosystems.

Tañon Strait

Tañon Strait, situated between Cebu and Negros Islands, is the country’s largest marine protected area and serves as a migratory path for whales and dolphins. Despite its ecological importance, it is not exempt from microplastic pollution.

In 2020, Dr. Maria Kristina Paler conducted a study revealing approximately 1.5 microplastic particles per liter in the strait’s waters. Most of these were polyethylene fragments from single-use plastics and sachet packaging.

Masao River

The Masao River, located in Butuan City on Mindanao Island, is a crucial aquaculture hub. However, the city’s high plastic consumption and poor waste management contribute to its pollution.

A 2023 study by Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology found one microplastic particle per liter of water in the river. Most were ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), commonly used in paint, reflecting the impact of industrial activities on water systems.

Sources of Microplastics in the Philippines

In the Philippines, microplastics originate from both local and external factors.

One major issue is poor plastic waste management in cities. Limited waste disposal systems, insufficient recycling facilities, and low awareness of proper plastic disposal lead to plastics ending up in the environment. Over time, these plastics break into tiny fragments, contaminating water bodies, soil, and even the air.

The country’s geography also contributes to the problem. As an archipelago with extensive coastlines, the Philippines is especially vulnerable to plastic pollution from local sources and neighboring countries. Rivers and waterways act as pathways, carrying plastic waste from inland areas to the ocean. Additionally, its location near major shipping routes increases the likelihood of plastic waste from other regions reaching its shores.

Problems Created by Microplastics

Marine Ecosystems at Risk: The Philippines’ rich marine biodiversity is threatened as microplastics infiltrate oceans and water bodies. Marine life, such as fish and shellfish, ingest these particles, accumulating in the food chain. Read more: The Environmental Impact of Microplastics in the Philippines.
Human Health Concerns: Microplastics in seafood consumed by Filipinos may pose potential health risks. While the long-term effects are not fully understood, ongoing research indicates potential adverse impacts from ingesting these particles.
Pollution of Freshwater Sources: Microplastics contaminate rivers, lakes, and other freshwater bodies, affecting clean water supplies for human consumption and aquatic ecosystems.
Economic Consequences: Microplastics negatively affect the fishing and seafood industries by contaminating marine resources and reducing income for coastal communities. Additionally, polluted beaches can harm tourism, a significant contributor to the Philippine economy.

Moving Forward

The presence of microplastics in the Philippines poses a pressing environmental challenge. Addressing this issue requires improving waste management systems, increasing public awareness, and enforcing stricter environmental policies. Implementing solutions at the national and international levels can help mitigate the problem, protecting the environment and the livelihoods that depend on it.

The Health Impact of Microplastics in the Philippines

Microplastics pose a greater problem than just harming the environment in the Philippines. These tiny plastic fragments, often invisible to the naked eye, are now found in the air, water, and food Filipinos consume daily. Understanding their effects on human health is essential to address this growing issue.

This article investigates how microplastics enter the bodies, their potential health effects, and measures to mitigate the risks in Filipinos.

How Do Microplastics Enter the Bodies of Filipinos?

Most microplastics in the Philippines end up in water bodies such as lakes, rivers, streams, canals, and oceans. Due to their small size and varied colors, many marine species are attracted to and mistakenly consume microplastics as food. This causes what we call the bioaccumulation of microplastics in marine organisms.

A 2020 study revealed that rabbitfish, a commonly consumed fish in the Philippines, had significant amounts of microplastics in their digestive systems. Further research in 2023 showed that 97% of milkfish sampled from fish farms in Butuan Bay had ingested microplastics. Milkfish is one of the most heavily consumed fish in the Philippines, and these findings highlight how seafood becomes a direct route for microplastics to enter the human body.

Seafood consumption is a major source of protein for Filipinos, accounting for roughly 50% of their dietary protein intake. This heavy reliance on seafood increases the risk of ingesting microplastics through food.

Aside from seafood, microplastics have also been detected in the air. A 2023 study on Metro Manila’s atmosphere identified microplastics in 16 cities, with Muntinlupa and Mandaluyong recording the highest levels. These microplastics, primarily made of polyester from clothing fabrics, pose a serious concern. Researchers estimate that the average adult walking the streets of Metro Manila may unknowingly inhale between 5 to 8 microplastics per minute.

*Types of atmospheric microplastics found in Metro Manila*
*Source: Romarate et. al.*

How do Microplastics Affect the Health of Filipinos?

Exposure to microplastics through food and air raises serious concerns about their impact on human health. While researchers recommend further studies to fully understand how microplastics affect the health of Filipinos, existing international research on similar cases can offer valuable insights to connect the dots.

Once inside the body, microplastics can travel through the bloodstream and accumulate in various organs. A 2024 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine linked the presence of microplastics in blood vessels to a 4.5 times higher likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, or mortality. Although microplastics are not a direct cause of these conditions, they significantly increase the risk. This is particularly concerning given that cardiovascular diseases rank among the top causes of death in the Philippines.

Microplastics have also been detected in human placentas. A 2021 study suggested that their presence could disrupt normal cell processes in the placenta, potentially leading to preeclampsia or impaired fetal growth. Preeclampsia is a leading cause of maternal deaths in the Philippines, contributing to 30% of such fatalities.

Additionally, microplastics are associated with various other health risks, including cytotoxicity (cell damage), hypersensitivity reactions, immune system disruptions, and hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells). These effects solidify the urgency of addressing microplastic exposure in the Philippines.

What Measures Are Needed to Help Filipinos Stay Safe?

A comprehensive approach is necessary to mitigate the health risks associated with microplastics. Here are some critical measures:

Promote Safer Seafood Practices: Raising awareness about microplastic contamination in seafood is essential. Educating the public to source seafood from reputable suppliers and advocating for clean fish farming practices can minimize the risks. Consumers should also be informed about the types of seafood more likely to contain microplastics, enabling them to make better food choices.
Improve Air Quality: Urban areas with high air pollution levels, like Metro Manila, must address airborne microplastic contamination. Encouraging the use of masks in polluted environments can reduce exposure. On a broader scale, measures such as promoting green spaces and reducing vehicle emissions are vital for improving air quality and respiratory health.
Strengthen Environmental Policies: Government action is critical in tackling plastic pollution. Introducing bans on single-use plastics, implementing extended producer responsibility schemes, and enforcing stricter waste management practices can help curb microplastic contamination. Public education campaigns about reducing plastic waste and adopting sustainable alternatives should also be a priority.
Invest in Research and Collaboration: Collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and industries is essential to understanding and addressing the health effects of microplastics. Interdisciplinary research can provide valuable insights, while partnerships can drive innovative solutions to reduce microplastic exposure.

A Healthier Future for the Philippines

Protecting Filipino health from microplastics requires clear and collective action. To reduce exposure, safer seafood practices, cleaner air, stronger environmental policies, and better waste management are essential.

Collaboration among government, industries, and communities, along with investments in research and innovation, will drive progress. By addressing the root causes and raising awareness, the Philippines can protect people’s health and ensure a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The Environmental Impact of Microplastics in the Philippines

A whale replica was unveiled on the morning of May 11 on the beach of Naic, Cavite. Through the art installation depicting a dead whale choked by plastics, Greenpeace Philippines seeks to underscore the massive problem of plastics pollution in the ocean and calls on the ASEAN to address this looming problem on its shores.

The Philippines is known for its rich biodiversity, supported by its tropical climate and vast water resources. With over 7,000 islands connected by rivers, lakes, and seas, the archipelago’s waterways are vital in sustaining its ecosystems.

However, these ecosystems face significant threats from various forms of pollution, including industrial discharge, deforestation, and improper waste disposal. Among these, microplastic pollution—a less visible but highly pervasive problem—has been consistently overlooked.

This article explores the environmental impact of microplastics in the Philippines and the actions needed to address this growing issue.

Microplastics and Their Impact on the Philippine Environment

Microplastics, tiny plastic particles measuring five millimeters or less, can penetrate nearly every part of the environment. They affect soil, water, and air, disrupting ecosystems and threatening biodiversity.

Impact on Ecosystems

Microplastics disrupt soil nutrient cycles and microbial communities, potentially harming plant growth. This can threaten endemic plant species vital to the Philippines’ unique ecosystems.

Rainwater and waterways carry microplastics into rivers, lakes, and seas, contaminating aquatic ecosystems. These particles cling to coral reefs, seaweeds, and algae, disrupting the feeding habits of filter feeders like clams and mussels. Microplastics also absorb and transport harmful chemicals, potentially causing toxic algal blooms that damage marine life.

According to a 2018 study, coral reefs exposed to plastics are 89% more likely to develop diseases due to pathogen contamination. As part of the Coral Triangle, the Philippines is home to some of the world’s most biodiverse reefs, making them especially vulnerable to this threat. This shows how microplastics can severely harm the country’s ecosystems.

In addition to contaminating water and soil, microplastics also pollute the air. Polyester fibers from textiles and clothing are particularly problematic, as they can remain suspended in the air, contributing to air pollution.

Impact on Wildlife

Microplastics severely affect the Philippines’ diverse wildlife, mainly aquatic species. Marine organisms often mistake these tiny particles for food. Ingestion can lead to blockages, malnutrition, and even death in species like fish, shellfish, and seabirds.

A recent study in Tañon Strait, a marine protected area in the Visayas Islands, found significant amounts of microplastics in the digestive systems of rabbitfish, a common food source for Filipinos. Microplastics are also often ingested by filter-feeding shellfish. A 2022 study reveals that exposure to microplastics can affect rabbitfish’s energy reserves, reducing shell and flesh growth and lowering their reproductive potential.

As microplastics move through the food chain, they pose risks to larger predators, including humans. Research is ongoing to fully understand the health implications of consuming seafood contaminated with microplastics.

Mitigating Microplastic Pollution

Addressing microplastic pollution requires collaborative efforts at both individual and governmental levels.

What Individuals Can Do

Filipinos can take proactive steps to help reduce plastic waste and its harmful effects on the environment:

Adopting reusable alternatives: Switching to reusable options like cloth bags, water bottles, and biodegradable containers can dramatically reduce the reliance on single-use plastics. These alternatives are not only eco-friendly but also cost-effective in the long run. For instance, using reusable bags for shopping minimizes the demand for plastic bags, which often end up in waterways and landfills, contributing to microplastic pollution.
Disposing of waste responsibly: Proper segregation and disposal of plastics ensure they do not infiltrate the environment. By depositing waste in designated bins and actively participating in local recycling programs, individuals can help divert plastics from ecosystems and ensure they are processed or repurposed appropriately. When multiplied across communities, this small act can reduce the volume of plastics that degrade into microplastics.
Joining cleanup drives: Participating in or organizing cleanup campaigns for beaches, rivers, and other areas helps remove plastics that could eventually break down into microplastics. These efforts restore the beauty of natural areas and protect aquatic ecosystems from further harm. Community-driven cleanups also foster collaboration and environmental stewardship, inspiring others to take action.
Raising awareness: Sharing knowledge about the dangers of microplastics can influence eco-conscious behavior among friends, family, and local communities. This could include educational discussions, social media posts, or even workshops highlighting the impacts of plastic pollution and how simple lifestyle changes can make a difference. Collective awareness builds a strong foundation for lasting environmental change.

What the Government Can Do

Government-led initiatives are critical in addressing the microplastic crisis and ensuring long-term solutions:

Banning single-use plastics: Implementing bans on plastic bags, straws, and utensils can drastically reduce the volume of plastics entering the environment. Encouraging eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable packaging or reusable materials, promotes sustainable practices while reducing waste. Several municipalities in the Philippines have already introduced localized bans, serving as a model for broader implementation.
Educating the public: Government awareness campaigns can help citizens become aware of the risks of microplastic pollution. These campaigns can inspire widespread behavioral change by highlighting the dangers of microplastics and promoting sustainable habits through school programs, social media, and community outreach. For example, teaching the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling can instill a sense of responsibility across generations.
Supporting and funding research: Government investment in research is crucial to understanding the extent of microplastic pollution and its long-term effects on ecosystems and human health. Studies on microplastic contamination in Tañon Strait and Metro Manila’s rivers provide valuable data that inform policy decisions. By funding such research, the government can develop evidence-based strategies to mitigate the problem and track progress over time.
Improving waste management: Investing in efficient systems is essential to prevent plastics from contaminating the environment. This includes setting up more recycling facilities, improving garbage collection systems, and ensuring proper segregation at the source.

A notable example is the “Integrated Waste Analysis, Survey, and Technological Options” (IWASTO) project, funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) from 2020 to 2022. This project evaluated waste management practices in Metro Manila, focusing on minimizing macro- and microplastics in water bodies. The project provided actionable recommendations for improving waste disposal and recycling systems.

A Collective Effort for Change

Microplastics are a hidden yet pervasive form of pollution that significantly threatens the Philippines’ environment, wildlife, and people. By combining individual actions with solid government policies, it’s possible to mitigate their impact and protect the country’s diverse ecosystems. Collaborative efforts can lead to meaningful change, ensuring that the Philippines’ natural beauty and resources are preserved for future generations.

Summary: Bioaccumulation and Biomagnification of Microplastics in Marine Organisms

This is an explanation of the current understanding about microplastics and additives bioaccumulating in marine organisms, as published in:

Bioaccumulation and biomagnification of microplastics in marine organisms: A review and meta-analysis of current data

Published In: PLoS One

On: Oct 16, 2020

Key Takeaways:

This is a literature review – the authors reviewed available research on bioaccumulation and biomagnification in marine organisms and summarized their findings.
Main Findings:
- Bioaccumulation of microplastics (MPs) within each trophic level is confirmed.
- Evidence for the biomagnification of MPs across marine food webs is not supported by current field observations.

Summary

Definitions

Bioaccumulation: The net uptake of contaminants (like microplastics and chemical additives) from the environment through all possible pathways (e.g., ingestion, contact, respiration). It occurs when an organism absorbs a substance at a rate faster than it can be excreted.
Biomagnification: The increase in concentration of a contaminant in the tissues of organisms at higher levels in a food chain.

Bioaccumulation

The paper discusses bioaccumulation focusing on microplastics and chemical additives within marine organisms, highlighting:

The mechanisms of bioaccumulation, including direct ingestion and exposure through the environment.
The impact of microplastics as vectors for chemical pollutants, emphasizing concerns about their ability to carry harmful substances into organisms.
The complexity of studying bioaccumulation due to varying factors like organism size, habitat, and exposure levels.
It advocates for more nuanced research methods to accurately assess the risks and effects of microplastics and associated chemicals on marine life.

Biomagnification

Regarding biomagnification, the paper indicates:

Current evidence does not support the hypothesis of biomagnification of microplastics (MPs) across marine food webs, based on field observations.
Laboratory experiments suggesting trophic transfer of MPs have often used conditions that are not reflective of natural environments.
The paper calls for more realistic environmental simulations in future research to better understand the dynamics of MP transfer across trophic levels.

Additives Associated with Plastics

The paper details on additives associated with plastics and their accumulation, highlighting:

Bioaccumulation of chemical additives, such as phthalates and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), associated with microplastics has been documented in fewer species compared to the bioaccumulation of the microplastics themselves.
These chemical additives are detected in higher concentrations when exposed to the chemical alone rather than in conjunction with microplastics, suggesting that the presence of microplastics might not always enhance the bioavailability of these chemicals.
The study underlines the complexity of assessing the environmental impact of these chemical additives, given their varied behaviors and interactions with microplastics in marine ecosystems.
It emphasizes the need for further research that considers realistic environmental conditions to better understand the dynamics of chemical additive accumulation and their potential effects on marine life.

Summary: Potential Effects of Microplastics and Additives of Concern on Human Health

This is an explanation of how microplastics and additives can affect human health, as published in:

A Detailed Review Study on Potential Effects of Microplastics and Additives of Concern on Human Health

Published In: The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Published On: Feb 13, 2020

Key Takeaways:

This is a review, which draws from the available research to summarize what is known about how microplastics and chemical additives effect human health.
The study covers plastic “additives of concern” which are classified as hazardous by the EU and are present in everyday products. It focuses on endocrine disruptors and covers the most prominent of them:
- BPA
- Phthalates
- Heavy Metals
- Flame Retardants
Micro and nano-plastics – the study summarizes research that shows how these particles get into our body and the effects they can have once there. Our primary exposure is through ingestion via the food we eat, which is often contaminated with micro and nano-plastics. Once in our body these particles and associated chemicals can have a variety of negative health implications.

Summary

Effects of Micro and Nanoplastics on Human Health

Entry Points and Exposure:

Mainly through ingestion of contaminated food.
Found in sugar, salt, alcohol, bottled water, and plants (fruits and vegetables).
Marine species consumption is a well-known source.

Absorption and Impact:

Small particles (<150 µm) can cross the gastrointestinal epithelium, leading to systemic exposure.
Absorption rates are low; 0.3% expected to be absorbed, and an even smaller fraction can reach organs and pass through blood-brain barriers.
Concerns about low exposure concentrations due to analytical challenges in detecting micro and nanoplastics.

Mechanisms of Entry:

Particles <2.5 µm enter the gastrointestinal tract through endocytosis or paracellular persorption.
Nanoplastics’ absorption through the skin is more probable than microplastics.

Toxicity and Health Effects:

Microplastics have high affinity for hydrophobic and persistent organic pollutants, antibiotics, and heavy metals, potentially introducing these into the human body.
Studies show cytotoxic effects on human cell lines, including T98G (brain cells) and HeLa (epithelial cells).
Effects include cytotoxicity, hypersensitivity, unwanted immune responses, and acute responses like hemolysis.

Additives of Concern

Overview:

Focuses on hazardous substances in plastics affecting human health.
Highlights Bisphenol A (BPA), Phthalates, Heavy Metals, and Flame Retardants.
Each additive has unique toxic effects, including endocrine disruption and cancer risk.

BPA:

Used in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins.
Leaches from products, contaminating food and water.
Estrogenic effects; linked to obesity, cardiovascular disease, and cancers.
Regulatory actions have been taken due to its harmful properties.

Phthalates:

Serve as plasticizers to increase flexibility in plastics.
Endocrine disruptors affecting reproduction and development.
Regulatory bans on certain phthalates in toys and childcare products.
Found in high volumes in the environment, raising significant health concerns.

Heavy Metals:

Include metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury used in plastics.
Cause various health issues, including cancer, bone, and nervous system damage.
Classified by regulatory agencies as carcinogens and toxicants.
Environmental contamination from these metals poses significant risks.

Flame-Retardants:

Chemicals added to plastics to prevent fires.
Include brominated and chlorinated compounds.
Linked to endocrine disruption and potential carcinogenicity.
Concerns over environmental persistence and bioaccumulation.

Microplastics in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

This is a summary and explanation of the following research paper:

Detection of Various Microplastics in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery

Published In: Environmental Science & Technology
On: July 13, 2023

Key Takeaways

Using advanced imaging techniques, the study analyzed tissue and blood samples from 15 cardiac surgery patients.
Microplastics were not universally present in all samples.
Nine types of microplastics were identified across five tissue types and in pre- and postoperative blood samples.
The study indicates that microplastics can exist in enclosed human organs, suggesting potential health impacts.

Study Summary

The study aimed to investigate the presence of microplastics in human heart tissues and blood. Using advanced imaging techniques, the study analyzed tissue and blood samples from 15 cardiac surgery patients. Key findings include:

Microplastics were not universally present in all samples.
Nine types of microplastics were identified across five tissue types and in pre- and postoperative blood samples.
The largest microplastic particle measured 469 μm in diameter.
Types and sizes of microplastics in blood changed after surgery.
The study indicates that microplastics can exist in enclosed human organs, suggesting potential health impacts.

This research highlights the widespread presence and potential health implications of microplastics in the human body, especially in sensitive internal organs.