Microplastics have invaded the major European rivers, reveal 14 studies published simultaneously in the journal "Environmental Science and Pollution Research". Microplastics have been found even in Antarctica. How do they end up in the environment? This videographic explains. VIDEOGRAPHIC
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00:00There are two types of microplastics.
00:09The majority of microplastics, which measure less than 5 millimeters, come from larger
00:14plastic waste, such as bottles or packaging.
00:18These fragments end up in nature and are known as secondary microplastics.
00:23But a significant portion of microplastics are incorporated directly into everyday objects
00:29during manufacturing and are dispersed into nature as we use them.
00:34These are primary microplastics.
00:36More than a third of primary microplastics released into the environment come from synthetic
00:41textiles.
00:43Machine-washed clothing releases plastic-containing microfibers into the sewage system.
00:49Many sewage treatment plants are unable to filter such small plastics, which then end
00:55up in the oceans.
00:57Almost 30% comes from the tires of vehicles.
01:00When they wear out, these microplastics are either dispersed by the wind or rainwater
01:04runoff, reaching the sewers and then the sea.
01:09Around a quarter of all emissions come from plastic dust produced in cities, abrasion
01:14from synthetic shoe soles, kitchen utensils, household dust, building exteriors, and detergents
01:21containing plastic.
01:23Finally, around 5% of our waste comes from boat paints, road markings, and personal care
01:29products, including certain toothpastes, shower gels, and body scrubs, where microplastics
01:35are added to improve texture and effectiveness.