Research Findings: Human Consumption of Microplastic Particles Reaches Tens of Thousands
In a groundbreaking study published in PLOS One, researchers have found that adults inhale an estimated 68,000 microplastic particles per day in indoor environments, including apartments and cars. This figure is significantly higher than previous estimates, which focused on larger microplastic particles [1][2][3].
The study, led by Nadiia Yakovenko, measured the contamination in private apartments and car interiors in southern France. It found an average of 528 microplastic particles per cubic meter of air in living spaces and a substantially higher concentration of 2,238 particles in cars [1][2][3].
Over 90% of these particles were smaller than 10 micrometers, making them capable of penetrating deep into the lungs. This is a cause for concern, as some of these particles can potentially enter the bloodstream and reach vital organs [1][2][3][4].
The study also found that the exposure to microplastics, particularly small particles between one and ten micrometers in diameter, is much higher than previously assumed. The main sources of microplastic contamination are the abrasion of textiles, plastic furniture, or vehicle interior linings [1][2][3].
The health impacts of microplastics are still largely unknown, but some of the tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and potentially trigger inflammatory processes. The shape of microplastics, particularly fibers or irregular fragments, may potentially impair lung function over time due to their tendency to deposit easily at branch points in the airways [1][2][3].
Professor Frohlich, one of the researchers involved in the study, notes that research is necessary to understand the health effects of microplastic contamination in indoor spaces. He also emphasises that every small measurement error can compound, and the data is based on measurements from relatively small volumes of air and a small portion of the total sample, which may be affected by uncertainties [1][2][3].
The study suggests that indoor spaces like apartments and cars are heavily contaminated with microplastics. It also highlights indoor air—especially in cars—as a major and previously underestimated route of exposure to lung-penetrating microplastics. The results provide a strong argument for systematically researching the health effects of microplastic contamination in indoor spaces [1][2][3][4].
Physical activity could significantly increase actual microplastic inhalation. People in modern societies spend about 90% of their time in closed spaces, potentially in an environment with increased exposure to plastic particles in the air [1][2][3].
The study's results provide a call to action for policymakers and individuals to address the issue of microplastic contamination in indoor spaces. Further research is necessary to fully understand the health implications of this widespread exposure.
Science has uncovered a concerning link between microplastics and mental health, as these small particles can potentially impair lung function and trigger inflammatory processes, which might impact mental well-being. Moreover, environmental-science research highlights the need for comprehensive investigations into the health impacts of microplastics, particularly in health-and-wellness contexts, given their high prevalence found in indoor spaces, including apartments and cars.
