Methodic plastic slip from Texas bays and to the Gulf of Mexico, where they can cause more damage to the environment – and perhaps us.
What is happening?
Researchers at the University of Texas in Austin I found recently The strict plastic in the bays is Texas, especially Bay BayrdaDo not accumulate in sediments as expected. Instead, they are transferred to the Gulf of Mexico.
The study, published in Environmental sciences and technology122 samples of sediments from the Bay of Matajorda, the Gulf of East Matagorda and San Antonio Gulf. Results Show Relatively low concentrations of delicate plastic in samples – only dozens to hundreds of molecules per kilogram of sediments, which range from hundreds to thousands of times from similar Bayside environments all over the world. This data was completely unexpected, according to researchers – especially with the plastic Pele Factory directly on the Matagorda Bay.
Researchers Describe The results of the shallow depths in the bays concerned, along with the conditions of wind and frequent hurricanes, which prevent accurate plastic from stability. And if this exact plastic does not settle, it will be washed away in the Gulf – which sends these small plastic molecules on a more destructive flight.
Why is this discovery important?
As researchers Explained in a loverY, once in the Gulf of Mexico, this microscopic plastic absorbs environmental chemicals and accumulates in marine life. This can pose risks to the broader ecosystem and human health, as this delicate plastic enters food and water supplies.
Cornell Orario, co -author of the study in the Department of Earth Sciences and Planets at Jackson School, said in A. statement. “But the bad thing is that they move much easier than we thought … and they represent a threat to everything left for us.”
According to Stanford reportAbout 10 to 40 million metric tons of flour plastic in the environment are launched every year. Do not disappear with exact plastic from the environment, fill waterways, soil, and air – everything. While scientists are still learning exactly how accurate plastic affects animals, people and the planet, it is clear that these widespread plastic particles cause long -term damage.
A 2020 study found that humans are almost inhaled 16.2 bits of flour plastic Every hour. This is the equivalent of credit card per week. Harvard University Medicine It highlights that exposure to accurate plastic is associated with a wide range of human health effects, including reproductive issues, cancer, infections, lung and liver problems, hormonal disorders, and changes in the intestinal microbiome.
What is done about the accurate plastic and its spread?
Understanding how and where the strict plastic travel is the key to its environmental impact effectively. This study represents the first time that researchers examine the spread of accurate plastic in the Gulfs of Texas, providing decisive basic data for more research.
As a next step in the research, authors Developing models To follow the exact plastic paths of the Gulf of Texas, hoping to know where to collect if not in the bays. Meanwhile, there are global efforts for Reducing the use of plastic To help combat precise plastic spread. But with the spread of plastic in our lives and our environment, avoiding completely accurate plastic is not only unlikely – it’s impossible.
However, there are simple ways to reduce your exposure. Choose clothes made from Natural fibersSurprisingly Plastic food packaging When you can, and bring Reustericable bags Instead of relying on a single use plastic materials. Since fine plastic materials are also present in the air, we breathe, regular discharge and use a HEPA air purification It can help reduce internal exposure.
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