We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Time is running: top ways to avoid a plasticene
Summary
This review article argues that society is approaching a "plasticene" — an era defined by pervasive plastic contamination — and calls urgently for behavioral, regulatory, and educational changes to curb plastic production and pollution. It highlights the growing body of evidence showing microplastics harm living organisms and human health, emphasizing that individual awareness and systemic governance reform are both essential.
This article analyzes the importance of plastics that have shaped the lifestyle of contemporary society and highlights the impacts produced by its wide availability across the planet. Starting from a brief historical overview of the rise of plastics and their insertion in different social and economic activities over the last century, we address the growing awareness of the deleterious mass proliferation of plastic pollution. In particular, we emphasize the increasing knowledge about the harmful effects of microplastics on biota and human health. A change in the role of plastic in society is unavoidable, with an urgent need for behavior changes in all social strata. Rethinking the way of production, use and management of plastics must involve social changes at domestic, regional and national levels. Environmental education and governance efforts for plastic recycling and innovation for environmentally friendly materials are of utmost importance. The change of attitudes, reducing the entry of plastics into the natural environment is an urgent task and enhancing individual awareness might be deemed paramount in educational institutions, and among decision makers.