In a startling revelation, researchers from the University of Toronto and Ocean Conservancy have uncovered that the average liter of bottled water contains nearly a quarter of a million microplastic pieces and nanoplastics. Utilizing a cutting-edge microscope with dual lasers, the scientists identified and categorized these minuscule particles for the first time, shedding light on the extent and nature of microscopic plastic contamination.
Analyzing five samples each from three commonly consumed bottled water brands, the researchers discovered particle levels ranging from 110,000 to 400,000 per liter, with an average of approximately 240,000 microplastic pieces. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, marks a crucial step in understanding the prevalence of these tiny plastic particles in a commonly consumed commodity.
Nanoplastics, defined as particles less than a micron in size, were found to be 10 to 100 times more abundant in bottled water compared to slightly larger microplastics studied in previous research. The microscopic plastic pieces seem to originate from the bottles themselves and the reverse osmosis membrane filters used to eliminate contaminants. The study refrained from disclosing the three brands investigated, emphasizing the need for more extensive sampling before singling out specific brands for scrutiny.
Despite the alarming findings, researchers remain unable to definitively answer the critical question: are nanoplastic pieces harmful to health? Study co-author Phoebe Stapleton, a toxicologist at Rutgers, stated that the potential dangers and impacts of these particles are currently under review. While it is established that nanoplastics are entering the tissues of mammals, including humans, ongoing research aims to decipher their effects at the cellular level.
The International Bottled Water Association has responded to the study, highlighting the lack of standardized measuring methods and scientific consensus on the potential health impacts of nano- and microplastic particles. The organization argues that media reports on these particles in drinking water may unnecessarily raise concerns among consumers.
The American Chemistry Council, representing plastics manufacturers, has refrained from immediate comments on the study’s findings. Meanwhile, environmental concerns regarding plastic pollution persist globally, with more than 430 million tonnes of plastic produced annually, leading to the presence of microplastics in oceans, food, and drinking water, as reported by the United Nations Environment Programme.
In a remarkable response to their own findings, all four co-authors of the study have announced a reduction in their bottled water consumption. While some have shifted to filtered water, the study acknowledges the challenges associated with water filters, which may introduce plastics. As researchers grapple with the implications of microplastics, there is a growing awareness of the need for comprehensive measures to address plastic pollution at its source and minimize the potential health risks associated with these pervasive particles.