Microplastics are everywhere, from the food and water we consume to the clothes we wear and the air we breathe. Their widespread presence has led many to question how it impacts our health.
Aaron Barchowsky, PhD, is an environmental molecular toxicologist at the University of Pittsburgh studying how contaminants impact the body. Scientists define microplastics as pieces of plastic smaller than the width of a human hair. Because these materials do not degrade easily, researchers are investigating the correlation between plastic accumulation and various diseases.
Barchowsky noted that the presence of microplastics in human systems has increased scientific interest. “But really, actually seeing that there is accumulation of the nanoplastics and microplastics in placentas or brains or kidneys has really fueled a lot of the concern,” Barchowsky said.
Researchers have observed a higher concentration of plastic in diseased brains compared to healthy ones. However, Barchowsky explained that specific measurements for disease triggers remain unknown. “We have a hard time measuring the amount of plastic that would cause a brain disease,” Barchowsky said. “We haven’t gotten to the point of knowing how much or what type of plastic is a problem.”
Scientists say there is no way to flush microplastics out of the human system beyond natural bodily functions, making minimization of ingestion the primary goal. Experts suggest keeping hot food away from plastic because chemicals and microplastics can leach at higher rates under heat. Recommendations include using glass or ceramic containers in the microwave and switching to stainless steel or glass for food storage.
Other lifestyle changes include using wooden cutting boards and avoiding paper coffee cups, which are often lined with plastic that sheds at high levels. Experts suggest using a stainless steel cup or a thermos as an alternative. A scientific study also found that rinsing rice with filtered water before cooking can reduce microplastic levels in that rice by up to 40%.
In Avalon, Amy Tokar operates Roxanne’s Refillery to provide alternatives to plastic packaging. The store supplies household essentials and pantry staples through bulk refills of laundry detergent, soaps and bags. Tokar said she started the mission because she believes the constant exposure to plastic is detrimental. “Knowing that there’s no way this can be good for us,” Tokar said. “And it’s really really difficult to avoid it.”
Tokar has integrated these practices into her daily life and buys her own products from the refillery. She said the business has successfully lowered waste for her family and her customers. “We’ve reduced a ton, I mean, because we I mean I end up buying all my products here now because I’m like really excited I can do that, right?” Tokar said.
Tokar said she wants to make the transition to a low-waste lifestyle easier for the community. “It’s really about making them feel comfortable,” Tokar said. “It’s all in time. There’s no rush. And making them feel comfortable. It’s not as hard as they think it is.”
Roxanne’s Refillery is part of a local network of shops with similar sustainability missions. This group includes Wonderfill Low Waste Market in the South Hills, Sol Refill and Today’s Organic Market in Oakmont. These business owners collaborate on orders to maintain affordability and reduce delivery emissions.
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