Microplastics, tiny plastic particles too small to see with the naked eye, are a rising concern worldwide. Research continues to link microplastic exposure to health dangers. We're already discovering these particles in everything from our seafood to the remote Himalayas. A new study, however, brings this threat alarmingly close to home.
Plastic in Your Drinking Water
The Plastic Soup Foundation: https://www.plasticsoupfoundation.org/en/what-we-do/health/do-micro-and-nanoplastics-threaten-our-health/, a leading organization in the fight against plastic pollution, highlights troubling findings about bottled drinking water. Their research reveals plastic bottles as a major source of microplastic contamination in the water we drink.
New research by Professor Lukas Kenner, cancer researcher and deputy director of the Clinical Institute of Pathology at the Medical University of Vienna, reveals that cancer cells spread faster and more aggressively after ingesting nanoplastics.
The Austrian professor states, “These findings scare me, and I hope they scare other people too”.
Microplastics break down from bottles over time, and this breakdown accelerates when the container is exposed to sunlight and heat. The scary truth? We unknowingly consume thousands of these microscopic plastic particles on a regular basis.
Why This Matters in Malta
Malta's heavy reliance on bottled water makes these findings particularly concerning for us. We enjoy warm weather and ample sunshine year-round, conditions that accelerate microplastic leaching. With the challenging taste of tap water, many Maltese households and businesses still rely on bottled water as their primary source of drinking water.
The Health Risks
While research into the full impact of microplastics on human health is ongoing, scientists are already finding links to serious conditions. Some of the potential health risks include:
- Hormonal disruption: Plastics contain chemicals that can act like hormones, interfering with our bodies' natural functions.
- Inflammation: Microplastics may trigger inflammation in our cells, linked to chronic diseases.
- Developmental problems: Exposure in infants and children is of particular concern.
Take Action: Protect Yourself and the Environment
It's time to rethink our dependence on plastic bottled water. Here's one easy solution that makes a big difference:
- Get a TAPP Water Filter: TAPP water filters effectively remove microplastics along with other contaminants like chlorine and heavy metals. You'll enjoy fresh, clean drinking water straight from your tap while significantly reducing your plastic waste. It's a win for both your health and the environment. Check out the EcoPro Compact, the smallest water filter in Malta
Other things you can do:
- Choose reusable bottles: Opt for glass or stainless steel water bottles to reduce plastic consumption.
- Spread the word: Share this information with friends and family to raise awareness about this crucial issue.
The Bottom Line
The Plastic Soup Foundation's research reminds us of the pervasive nature of plastic pollution and its potential impact on our health. Let's choose a healthier and more sustainable approach to staying hydrated. Remember, every small change adds up to a big difference for ourselves and for Malta's environment.
