Metallic Microplastics in Glitter Interfere With Photosynthesis of Aquatic Plants

Glitter, the shiny substance that adorns our clothes, makeup, and decorations, may seem harmless and fun, but it is actually a hidden menace to our planet.

Glitter is made of tiny pieces of plastic that end up in our waterways, harming marine life and ecosystems. In this article, we will explore the environmental impact of glitter, the scientific evidence behind it, and the possible solutions to this problem.

Glitter: A Microplastic Pollutant

Glitter is a type of microplastic, which are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters in diameter. Microplastics are ubiquitous in our environment, especially in the oceans, where they accumulate and pose a threat to marine organisms.

According to a 2017 study, there are more than 5 trillion pieces of plastic floating in the world's oceans, weighing over 250,000 tons.

Glitter is particularly problematic because of its small size and shape, which make it difficult to filter out by wastewater treatment plants. Glitter can also contain metals, such as aluminum, that can leach into the water and affect its quality.

Glitter is often used during celebrations, such as the Brazilian Carnival, where people apply it to their bodies and clothes. However, most of this glitter is washed off and ends up in the sewers, eventually reaching the rivers and seas.

The Effects of Glitter on Aquatic Life

The presence of glitter in the water can have negative consequences for aquatic life, especially plants. A recent study from the Federal University of São Carlos in Brazil showed that glitter can impair the growth of aquatic plants by interfering with their photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use light to produce energy and oxygen. The researchers exposed aquatic plants to different concentrations of glitter and found that the higher the concentration, the lower the photosynthesis rate.

Aquatic plants are essential for the health and balance of aquatic ecosystems, as they provide oxygen, food, and shelter for many animals. If their growth is hindered by glitter, the whole food chain and biodiversity can be affected.

Moreover, glitter can also be ingested by fish and other animals, causing physical damage, inflammation, and toxicity. Glitter can also accumulate in the tissues of animals and be transferred to higher levels of the food chain, including humans.

What Can We Do to Stop Glitter Pollution?

The alarming findings about glitter's environmental impact call for urgent action from all stakeholders, including consumers, producers, and policymakers. Some possible solutions are:

• Avoiding or reducing the use of glitter, especially during festive occasions. Instead, opt for more eco-friendly alternatives, such as biodegradable glitter, natural materials, or reusable accessories.
• Educating the public about the harmful effects of glitter and raising awareness about the importance of protecting our oceans and marine life.
• Supporting research and innovation to develop new materials and technologies that can replace or degrade glitter without harming the environment.
• Implementing stricter regulations and standards for the production, labeling, and disposal of glitter and other microplastics. This could include banning or taxing glitter, requiring manufacturers to use biodegradable or recyclable materials, and improving the efficiency of wastewater treatment plants.

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