Exploring Biological Innovations And Research on the Removal of Microplastics from the environment
It is important to keep up with the latest scientific literature and news for updates on innovative methods and ongoing research related to microplastics, as the field is constantly evolving. Current research contributes to our understanding of environmental issues, often building on existing knowledge, and allows us to bridge gaps in our understanding. Environmental research drives us to generate innovations and opens up possibilities for addressing emerging challenges. The problem of microplastics and their roles in producing detrimental health and environmental issues is a relatively new topic, as much of the existing literature only dates back to the early 2000s. Educating ourselves on existing research, innovations, and published literature allows us to stay current with our knowledge and inspire innovation relating to the rapidly growing issue of microplastics.
The microplastic issue arose with the discovery of widespread microscopic plastic fragments across many habitats, highlighted in the 2004 article, “Lost at Sea, where is All the Plastic.” Written by primary author Richard P. Thompson, the article expanded upon plastic accumulation in the ocean since 1960, and although the plastic began to degrade, it only broke down into particle-sized pieces that would take centuries to fully deteriorate. With the publication of this article, the term “microplastics”, or extremely small pieces of plastic debris in the environment resulting from the disposal and breakdown of larger plastics, was coined. Since the article was released to the public, the discoveries have only expanded our knowledge of the microplastic effect on the environment and have driven new solutions to be created to address the issue.
The use of biological elements as an approach to the microplastic issue is present in current publications. Bioplastics are sustainable forms of plastics derived from biological substances, such as starch or cellulose-based, and are often biodegradable, meaning that the plastics can be decomposed by living organisms. Though effective in using less fossil fuels and therefore fewer greenhouse gasses, the breakdown of bioplastics also produces microplastics. Microplastics from bioplastics, although easier to degrade, still build up rapidly in soil and the oceans as corporations and people in general turn to using this improved form of plastic. Bioplastic buildup can be tackled by depolymerization, or the breakdown of a polymer to a monomer. A recent study primarily authored by Ke Meng expanded on the idea of using the biological solution of earthworms in depolymerization. The study analyzed the survival of earthworms in microplastic-polluted soil with almost 100% of earthworms surviving. The earthworms were able to survive in an astonishing way; by digesting, fragmenting, and depolymerizing the microplastics through their gut enzymes. The ambulation of microplastics in soil, whether biodegradable or not, still has significant implications for soil properties and organisms. The study promoted the use of natural interventions rather than artificial ones (such as the creation of biodegradable plastics), to preserve and restore biodiversity and enhance the overall health of ecosystems.
Over the last two decades, there has been a significant advancement in the field of microplastic pollution and possible solutions. It is important to keep up with current literature to educate yourself not only on issues related to microplastics but also on broader environmental issues. Staying educated on ecological material makes you more inclined to make informed environmental decisions, and promotes environmental well-being.
