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Microplastics are Everywhere
Summary
This brief overview explains what microplastics are, where they come from, and why their persistence in the environment is a concern. Microplastics smaller than 5mm take decades to degrade and have been found in oceans, freshwater, soil, and living organisms worldwide. It is a general-audience introductory piece rather than original research.
The widespread use and misuse of plastics has resulted in serious environmental degradation issues which need to be addressed with immediate effect. One of the most prevalent forms of marine debris in our lakes and seas is plastic. Debris made of plastic can be of any size or shape. Microplastics, however, are plastic particles that are smaller than five millimetres. These tiny pieces could take decades or more to degrade fully. Thus, it is important to manage plastic use and disposal.