In 2019 I was lucky enough to be a part of Exxpedition, a plastic research voyage that was organized and run by amazing women. As a part of the data we gathered, there was an emphasis on microplastics, which has been in the news more and more.
While most people think about plastic pollution as the small bits that plastics breaks down into out in the environment, microplastics are even smaller and are everywhere. These teeny tiny pieces of plastic have been found in everything from drinking water, to chicken nuggets, to our brains.
According to the NY Times, recent studies have linked these pollutants to heart disease, lung disorders, and more worrying health issues.
Limiting Your Microplastic Exposure
While they are impossible to avoid, you can limit your exposure to microplastics by limiting the plastic in your life. Especially when it comes to food and drink.
Bottled Water
Instead of bottled water carry a glass or metal reusable water bottle and fill it up at home. In most cases around the US, tap water is a better choice than plastic bottled water. It's cheaper, has a lower environmental footprint and is subject to more testing and regulation than bottled water companies.
However, there is no doubt that there are communities in the US where the tap water is not safe, which is completely unacceptable in a country with our wealth and technology.
Sign the Petition
Our friends at the Plastic Pollution Coalition are sharing a petition asking the EPA to take a proactive approach to protect communities impacted by unsafe drinking water. You can read more and sign here.
Cooking with Plastic
It's also important to avoid anything that involves heating or freezing food in plastic. Plastic breaks down more easily when it's hold or cold. That means not freezing or reheating food in plastic, not cooking with plastic, and not running plastic through the dishwasher.
Experts also suggest bamboo or glass cutting boards and metal or bamboo cooking utensils.
No need to throw everything plastic in your kitchen away, but as you replace things try to choose more sustainable items for your home and health!
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