Microplastics in the Asia-Pacific Region in the Plasticene Era: Exposures and Health Risks

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Materials Science

Background:

• The Plasticene Era signifies pervasive human exposure to nano- and microplastics (NMPs) via inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact.
• NMPs originate from diverse sources including vehicle tires, synthetic textiles, food packaging, personal care products, and manufacturing processes.
• NMPs are now ubiquitous within the human body, detected across all organs, highlighting a growing public health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and report on nano- and microplastic (NMP) discussions at the 19th International Conference of the Pacific Basin Consortium for Environment and Health.
• To synthesize current evidence on NMP exposure and health effects, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
• To underscore the urgent need for collaborative strategies to mitigate NMP pollution.

Main Methods:

• Mini-review of scientific literature on NMPs.
• Report on sessions from the 19th International Conference of the Pacific Basin Consortium for Environment and Health (2022).
• Synthesis of evidence on NMP sources, exposure pathways, and health implications.

Main Results:

• Significant evidence of substantial NMP exposure in the Asia-Pacific region was presented.
• NMPs are demonstrably present in all human organs, with fragmented but increasing evidence of adverse health effects.
• Diverse sources contribute to widespread environmental and human contamination with NMPs.

Conclusions:

• Addressing the global NMP crisis requires coordinated efforts from policymakers, manufacturers, and researchers.
• Development of safer alternatives and effective mitigation strategies are crucial for reducing NMP exposure.
• The emerging UN global plastic treaty offers a vital opportunity to implement binding regulations and remediation actions.