Mapping Human Microplastic Exposure Worldwide: Insights from a Study across 109 Countries

Photo: Cornell University / Overview of Microplastic Uptake Pathways in Diet and Air, and Reduction Through Water Quality Control in 109 Nations.

A recent study by #Cornell researchers, published in Environmental Science & Technology, reveals that Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines top the global per capita list for dietary uptake of #microplastics. Meanwhile, China, Mongolia, and the United Kingdom lead in inhaling microplastics. The study, led by Fengqi You and doctoral student Xiang Zhao, accounts for various factors such as eating habits, food processing, demographics, and breathing rates to estimate microplastic consumption.

Indonesia leads in microplastic ingestion, with residents consuming about 15 grams per month, mainly from aquatic sources like seafood. This marks a significant increase from 1990 to 2018. The U.S. follows with an estimated 2.4 grams per month, while Paraguay has the lowest intake at 0.85 grams.

China and Mongolia have the highest rates of microplastic inhalation, with residents breathing in over 2.8 million particles per month. In contrast, U.S. residents inhale around 300,000 particles monthly. The study attributes this disparity to industrialization, with developing economies experiencing increased plastic consumption and waste generation.

The research underscores the need for tailored reduction strategies, emphasizing international collaboration and technology transfer from developed to developing countries. A 90% reduction in aquatic plastic debris could significantly decrease microplastic exposure, particularly in developed and highly industrializing regions.

The study coincides with negotiations for the U.N. Plastics Treaty, aiming to establish global regulations on plastic production and disposal. It underscores the importance of addressing microplastic pollution through multifaceted approaches, including sustainable packaging, waste management, and water treatment technologies.

Photo: Cornell University / Assessment of Daily Microplastic Consumption and Inhalation per Capita Across 109 Industrialized and Developing Nations, Spanning Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, Emphasizing Coastal Regions.

In summary, the study highlights the critical role of understanding microplastic uptake at the country level to mitigate plastic pollution and protect public health, emphasizing the need for coordinated international efforts and targeted interventions.

Source:  Cornell University

Journal Reference: Xiang Zhao et al, Microplastic Human Dietary Uptake from 1990 to 2018 Grew across 109 Major Developing and Industrialized Countries but Can Be Halved by Plastic Debris Removal, Environmental Science & Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c00010.

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