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Health
Last updated
June 24, 2026

Microplastics

Air pollution and microplastics represent an emerging concern as these tiny plastic particles become increasingly prevalent in the atmosphere. Research reveals that microplastics are now detectable in air samples from urban environments to remote locations, raising questions about inhalation exposure and health impacts. Studies are beginning to document how these particles interact with traditional air pollutants and potentially affect respiratory health. Discover the latest research on airborne microplastics and what this emerging pollutant means for air quality and human health.

General

  • Microplastics have turned up in the human bodies (degrading plastic, wear and tear of products including car tyres, paints, synthetic fabrics) (The Economist, 2025)
  • Of 257 patients, half of them were found to have microplastics and those who did were 4 times more likely to have a stroke, heart attack, or die. (The Economist, 2025)
  • Reduce exposure to microplastics by avoiding food/drink packaged in plastics, avoid microwaved meals, using less synthetic fabrics, and cleaning household dust (The Economist, 2025)
  • Shed by vehicle tyres and brakes, becoming airborne and able to contaminate food/water (Miner et al., 2024)
  • Effects of ingestion may include “inflammation, cellular damage, gastrointestinal issues, and effects from the accumulation of heavy metals that attach to microplastics (Chang et al., 2020; Vethaak and Legler, 2021; Wright and Kelly, 2017)

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