The College of Pharmacy recently marked its first Microplastics Awareness Week, held March 23–27, to raise awareness about microplastics and the serious health and environmental concerns they pose. Associate Dean for Research Lorne Hofseth launched the initiative after studying the wide-ranging impacts caused by microplastic exposure.
Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments less than 5 millimeters in size, produced either as microbeads intentionally added to personal care products or formed when larger plastics break down over time through weathering and UV exposure. While the majority originate from packaging materials such as plastic water bottles, laundry detergent bottles and food storage containers, microplastics are also found in building and construction materials, clothing items and even personal care products like face wash and toothpaste.
"Our committee wanted to raise awareness about the many areas in which microplastics can be found," Hofseth says. "Microplastics have only recently been studied significantly, and it has only been in the past decade that we have discovered them inside the human body."
Microplastics have only recently been studied significantly, and it has only been in the past decade that we have discovered them inside the human body ...
That discovery has raised significant health concerns. Microplastics have now been detected in human blood, lung tissue, breast milk and even the placenta. Emerging research suggests they may contribute to inflammation, disrupt hormonal systems and potentially increase the risk of certain cancers, though studies are still ongoing.
Hofseth hosted daily activities and videos throughout the week to provide more information about the dangers of microplastics and what can be done to mitigate their presence through even small, everyday changes. The week also features activities designed to encourage faculty and staff to help lead broader environmental change.
"By taking simple steps such as replacing plastic food storage containers with glass, upgrading water drinking filtration systems, replacing pod-based plastic coffee systems, even by avoiding paper drinking cups that have a plastic coating inside, we can all make a meaningful difference," Hofseth adds.
Watch each’s day’s session on YouTube.
Topics: Research