Although invisible to the naked eye, microplastics are alarmingly prevalent in various ecosystems, according to researchers from Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Their studies indicate that individuals consume an estimated 50,000 microplastic particles annually via food and drink, while inhaling around 70,000 particles each year. Despite their minuscule size, these plastics present significant dangers, prompting innovative minds to seek solutions.
Plastic, plastic everywhere—especially in your beverages
This year, Canada will generate 3 million tonnes of plastic waste, with 91 percent going unrecycled. As this plastic degrades into microplastics—small fragments under 5 millimeters, often invisible—it contaminates soil, air, and water supplies.
The sources of microplastics extend beyond typical discarded items like water bottles or food containers. Unexpected contributors include household paints and adhesives, the exfoliating particles found in personal care products, and even garments made from synthetic fibers.
This invisible plastic menace has become nearly universal. It exists in the air we inhale (particularly indoors), is detected in human blood, and has even been found in mothers’ breast milk and the womb. In a study of fish from the Great Lakes, all specimens displayed microplastic contamination.
Even the most remote locations aren’t spared; groundbreaking research in the Canadian Arctic has revealed microplastics’ presence in ice, soil, and water across expansive areas.
Small particles, significant health implications
Microplastic pollution is an emerging concern that is rapidly gaining attention. Researchers are working diligently to assess the health risks linked to microplastics. Notably, just two years ago, a method was developed to identify microplastics in human blood, revealing substantial quantities.
Experts indicate that there remain numerous uncertainties regarding the health effects of microplastics. However, existing studies suggest various potential harms. These plastics may contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress (a precursor to many diseases, including cardiovascular conditions), cancer, and even neurotoxicity.
“With age, the body’s ability to filter out toxins diminishes, resulting in the potential accumulation of microplastics over time, which could lead to severe health issues,” states attorney C.L. Mike Schmidt. He has a background in representing high-profile clients affected by hazardous substances and focuses on the legal ramifications associated with microplastic pollution. “Research even indicates that microplastics could contribute to serious conditions like cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.”
Innovative solutions on the horizon
Can advancements in technology help alleviate our reliance on plastics? Despite efforts to grasp the myriad ways microplastics impact both Canadians and the environment, innovators are proactively exploring strategies to address this escalating plastic crisis.
For instance, last year saw the emergence of microorganisms engineered to consume plastic. These microbes convert plastic materials into valuable products like vanilla flavoring and components used in pharmaceuticals and fragrances.
Another approach is to redesign the plastics themselves. Conventional plastics persist indefinitely, merely fragmenting into smaller particles over time, forming nanoplastics. In response, some companies are experimenting with polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), a more sustainable alternative.
“PHA is a biodegradable polymer synthesized by bacteria from fermented sugars or fats, offering a safer and environmentally friendly option compared to traditional plastics,” explains Schmidt. “Unlike conventional plastics, which can take centuries to decompose and may release harmful substances, PHA breaks down naturally in various conditions, reducing the risks associated with environmental pollution and danger to wildlife.”
This transition is beneficial for human health as well. “PHA is much more compatible with biological systems, meaning it can be metabolized by the body rather than accumulating within,” adds Catherine Rall, a registered dietitian nutritionist.
Canadian innovators are at the forefront of this transformation. For instance, the clean-tech startup Genecis Bioindustries, based in Scarborough, is pioneering a method to convert food waste into PHAs using specialized bacteria supported by the University of Toronto.
The resultant plastic can replace many applications currently filled by traditional plastics, including packaging, apparel, disposable items like food containers, and even medical supplies. Luna Yu, the company’s founder, states that the resulting products can fully compost in just 30 days. Should these PHA items find their way into the ocean, they will completely degrade within a year—without releasing harmful microplastics.
Genecis is not alone in this initiative. In Quebec, BOSK Bioproducts produces PHAs from industrial waste, like sludge from paper production. Meanwhile, BioForm—a startup at the University of British Columbia—creates bioplastic from pulp fiber, seaweed, and salt, which can also function like standard plastics while remaining entirely biodegradable.
The future of plastics is shifting towards solutions that aim to eliminate microplastics from our ecosystems.
This piece was first published in the October 2024 edition of up7op magazine.
