Question: What effect does micro plastics have to the world

Michael Gillin answered on 24 Mar 2026:

Microplastics form when non-biodegradable polymers (or “plastics”) mechanically break down (such as in the ocean) to form tiny particles that cannot be easily seen. These microplastics gradually accumulate in our oceans and other water supplies, where they are ingested by fish and absorbed by plants through their roots.

Eventually, many humans eat these fish and plants, leading to a gradual increase in microplastics in our bloodstreams, which can cause chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, cellular damage, and an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

The best way to minimise these risks is to do your part and reuse, reduce, and recycle any plastic in your home, school, or workplace.