MICROPLASTICS - KNOWLEDGE GAPS

There are a number of knowledge and research gaps within the field of microplastics. Further research is needed on the below topics, which will better inform future policy making.

  • Short & long term individual, population and community level health effects due to microplastic and associated toxin exposure (inhalation+ingestion).
  • What levels are ‘safe’ for drinking water, food, etc?
  • What are effective techniques for capturing microplastic from indoor and outdoor air?
  • How can microplastics be effectively removed from sewage sludge?  In situ removal or before it reaches WWT?
  • What are the various mechanisms for retrofitting waste water treatment (WWT) plant facilities for collecting microplastics?
  • What is the best mechanism to prevent clothing and textile microplastics from entering the environment?
  • Are clothing dryers a significant source of microfiber pollution?  If so, how is this best prevented?

RESOURCES

Priority Brief: Microfibers Outdoor Industry Association

Why Care about Microplastics in the Anthropocene?

Microplastics in the aquatic environment: Evidence for or against adverse impacts and major knowledge gaps

A critical perspective on early communications concerning human health aspects of microplastics

Plastic Pollution Emissions Working Group

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