Why reducing microplastics is essential and achievable

Microplastics: prevention is better than cure

It has only recently become known that microplastics can penetrate deep into the human body (see World Health Organization report). The health risks of microplastics are still largely unclear, but studies increasingly indicate that they’re potentially dangerous.

Meanwhile, the production of plastics is showing huge growth, and it’s estimated that by 2050, plastics use will have increased fourfold. This growth is increasing the potential risks of microplastics for humans and the environment. To avert future problems, action is needed now to minimise exposure to microplastics.

The dark side of plastics

In spite of the bad reputation that plastic sometimes suffers from, its mass use since the 1950s has led in many ways to sustainability and improved well-being and prosperity.

But the properties that make plastic so durable also have a dark side. Plastic decays very little – or not at all – but over the long term, it does break down into minuscule particles. These are microplastics: pieces of plastic that are so light and tiny that they spread into every corner of our living environment.

TNO’s microplastics model

An understanding of the entire life cycle of plastics – their production, use, and end-of-life phase – has been lacking until now. We’ve therefore designed a model that brings together research into the formation and spread of microplastics, and potential countermeasures: TNO’s microplastics model.

The aim of the model is to give direction to policy. Results show that adopting the right measures may result in a significant reduction in microplastics.

70% reduction in microplastics is possible

We’ve conducted extensive research on microplastics in the Netherlands and potential measures to reduce the quantity of such plastic particles.

This shows that a reduction in microplastics of around 70% by 2050 is achievable through the maximum deployment of 17 mitigation strategies. The 17 measures are grouped into 9 categories (see below).

Top 5 measures for reducing microplastics

Of the 17 measures studied, 5 appear to have the greatest impact in reducing the formation of microplastics. These are:

1. Widespread roll-out of deposits principle and encouraging litter clearing
2. Accelerate innovations in packaging materials
3. Accelerate innovations in tyre materials
4. Better recycling
5. Applying the R strategies (Refuse and Reduce)

Working together to reduce microplastics

If industry, government bodies, consumers, knowledge institutions, and NGOs combine their activities, it will be possible to achieve a 37% reduction in microplastics by as early as 2030. This reduction could be 70% by 2050, even if plastics consumption increases.

Are you wondering how your policy could contribute to these efforts? Or are you curious as to which measures can contribute most to achieving your business objectives?

We’re happy to help you work out the best strategy. To this end, please contact our expert Sieger Henke.