Bal Tashchit and Beyond: Microplastics - Small Particles, Big Problem

The Charlotte Jewish News, March 2025

By Lisa Shpritz

Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have become a significant environmental concern in recent decades. They originate from two primary sources: primary microplastics, such as microbeads in cosmetics and industrial abrasives, and secondary microplastics, which result from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags, and fishing nets. These minuscule pollutants are now ubiquitous, contaminating oceans, rivers, soil, and even the air we breathe. The environmental impacts of microplastics are profound and addressing this issue requires a combination of global policy changes, individual actions, and technological innovation.

Where Are Microplastics Found?

Microplastics have been detected in nearly every corner of the planet, from the Arctic ice caps to the deep sea. They are carried by ocean currents, wind, and rivers, enabling them to accumulate in remote and pristine environments. Recent studies have even discovered microplastics in rainwater and human blood, underscoring the pervasive nature of this pollutant. These tiny particles are not biodegradable and persist in the environment for hundreds of years, continually accumulating and exacerbating the problem.

Microplastics don’t just contaminate land and water—they’re also found in the air. Particles from tire wear, synthetic fibers, and degraded plastics can become airborne, posing potential health risks such as respiratory issues and inflammation.

Microplastic sources include textile fibers shed during washing, tire wear particles from vehicle movement, plastic fragmentation due to sunlight and mechanical stress, and microbeads in cosmetics and industrial cleaners.

The Impacts of Microplastics

- Marine and Aquatic Ecosystems

Microplastics pose a severe threat to marine and freshwater ecosystems. Fish, shellfish, and other aquatic organisms often mistake microplastics for food. Ingesting these particles can

- Human Health

Recently, there has been much discussion about possible adverse human health effects from the ingestion or inhalation of microplastics. While the full extent of their impact on human health is still being studied, potential concerns include physical damage to cells, chemical toxicity from associated pollutants, and possible links to cancer, reproductive issues, and immune system disruptions.

Reducing the Impact of Microplastics

- Policy and Regulation

Governments play a critical role in mitigating the problem of microplastics. Policies to ban single-use plastics, restrict the use of microbeads in personal care products, and improve waste management systems are essential steps. For example, the European Union has implemented the Single-Use Plastics Directive, while countries like Canada and the U.K. have banned microbe-

ads in cosmetics. Microbeads are often used as exfoliants in products such as face wash, toothpaste, shampoo, and body scrub.

- Innovative Technologies Emerging technologies offer hope in addressing the microplastic crisis. Biodegradable plastics made from plant-based materials, enzymes capable of breaking down plastics, and microplastic capture devices for washing machines are examples of innovative solutions. Investing in research and development can accelerate the deployment of these technologies.

What Can We Do?

We can help reduce microplastics by using less plastic in daily life. Here are some small changes we can all make that will make a big difference:

- Choose natural fibers: Wear clothing made from cotton, wool, silk, bamboo, or other biodegradable materials.

- Minimize plastics in laundry and dishwashing: Use powder detergents for laundry and dishwashing that are packaged in cardboard or aluminum rather than detergents packaged in plastic containers or plastic-containing pods or laundry sheets.

- Make your parties plastic-free: Rather than balloons and other single-use plastic party decorations, use decorations that can be used again, including fabric tablecloths, glass vases, lanterns, and plants.

- Support eco-friendly products: Avoid personal hygiene products and cosmetics with microbeads and purchase products sold in sustainable packaging.

- Switch from disposables: Keep a reusable water bottle,

coffee mug, and cutlery in your backpack, purse, or car.

- Ditch plastic wrap: Try reusable silicone bowl toppers or beeswax wraps to cover food.

- Eliminate plastics in the shower: Use bar shampoo and soap rather than shampoo and body wash packaged in plastic containers.

Clean-Up Efforts

While prevention is the ultimate solution, cleaning up existing microplastic pollution is also necessary. International initiatives like The Ocean Cleanup aim to remove plastics from rivers and oceans before they break down into microplastics. However, these efforts must be complemented by upstream measures to prevent further pollution.

The Path Forward

Addressing the issue of microplastics requires a collective effort from governments, industries, and individuals. Policies to reduce plastic production, innovative technologies for cleanup, and behavioral changes at the consumer level are all essential components of a comprehensive solution.

The microplastic crisis is daunting, but it is not insurmountable. With coordinated efforts and a commitment to sustainable practices, we can mitigate its effects and work toward a cleaner, healthier planet.

Jewish tradition teaches the importance of caring for the environment—we are partners in preserving creation. If you're interested in volunteering with or donating to Shalom Green, visit our website at www.shalomgreenCLT.org or email info@ shalomgreenCLT.org. Connect with us on Facebook at Shalom Green: Shalom Park Environmental Initiative and on Instagram @shalomgreen_CLT.