Every two years, the Burnaby Youth Sustainability Network organizes the Do It Green conference. Along with other BYSN members, I plan workshops to promote a more sustainable future in the community. This year’s conference revolves micro-plastics and their effects on the environment. At first, I did not know much about them. However, after doing some research, I realized how they are not only detrimental to marine life but they also negatively affect the ecosystem.
What are micro-plastics?
Micro-plastics are invisible pieces of plastic that measure 5 millimetres or less. They mainly fall into two categories. Primary micro-plastics, like micro-beads, are used as abrasives and can be found in personal care and cleaning products. Secondary micro-plastics are large pieces of plastic that break down from waves, sunlight, or other physical stress.
Over time, plastic degrades into micro-plastics. However, they never fully break down. Due to the particles small size, they are difficult to filter out. Instead, they are discharged into the waterway and affect worms, zooplankton, and crustaceans; the fish and other marine animals’ source of food. When these animals consume these foods, the plastic may irritate their digestive system and they may become malnourished. Marine animals are also a source of food for humans and as a result, we may end up eating the plastic we use.
Humans use plastic on a daily basis due to their convenience, weight, cost, and durability. Although we cannot get rid of plastic completely, we can still limit our use. When shopping for personal hygiene products, it is also important to read the ingredients list. If you see materials such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, you may want to refrain from using them as they are plastic! If we are not mindful our plastic usage, we will only continue to contributing to ocean pollution.
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