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Managing microplastics
Summary
This feature article surveys the current state of microplastic pollution, examining production volumes, sources, and the regulatory landscape as global plastic output approaches 430 million metric tonnes per year. The piece explores the less visible dimensions of plastic pollution beyond visible marine debris, including microplastic distribution in ecosystems and human exposure pathways.
The world produces around 430 million metric tons (t) of plastic a year , according to the United Nations. That’s the weight of almost 1,300 Empire State Buildings. Without a binding treaty to limit plastic production, the number is on track to more than double . In that same period, mismanaged plastic waste is expected to double , reaching over 120 million t. Images of plastic bottles washed up on beaches and six-pack rings choking marine animals have become symbols of plastic pollution. In this issue, C&EN takes a deep dive into the less visible, insidious side of our plastics problem: microplastics. As the name implies, microplastics are tiny particles—specifically designated as less than 5 mm in size. Some are purposefully made small for use in products like cosmetics, where they can serve as exfoliants. Most result from the disintegration of larger plastic items. Microplastic is a relatively new term