Health and Environmental Effects of Microplastics

Microplastics have increasingly been in the news. The production of plastics has been
skyrocketing in recent years and is expected to triple by 2060. After use, plastics do not
biodegrade – they just break down into smaller particles called microplastics that
contain all the chemicals used to make plastic. These particles are found in air, soil,
and water.
Microplastics get into the human body and have been found in virtually every body
system that has been tested: skin, eyes, brain, blood, blood vessels, heart, lungs,
intestines, liver, kidneys, urine, feces, reproductive tracts, placentas, amniotic fluid,
breastmilk, and infant feces. They have been linked to an increased risk of heart attack,
stroke, and dementia and are suspected to contribute to many other adverse health
conditions.
Recycling is not the answer – less than 10% of plastics are recycled and this is not
expected to increase. It is unlikely that governments or fossil fuel companies will take
effective action in the near future, but there are many ways individuals and local
businesses can reduce their exposure to plastics.
This talk will provide information about the adverse health effects of plastic and
practical ways to reduce exposure.
Participants will be asked to break into these groups:
 What information is most helpful to you in coaching others on the impact of
microplastics?
 What do you think are the main points to be made as a coach regarding
microplastics?
 Have you ever brought up the idea of using less plastic with others, either as a
coach or in your daily life? If so, what went well and what was difficult? If not,
what would make this conversation easier to start?