Microplastic particles have been revealed in the placentas of unborn babies for the first time, which the researchers said was “a matter of great concern”.
The health impact of microplastics in the body is as yet unknown. But the scientists said they could carry chemicals that could cause long-term damage or upset the foetus’s developing immune system. The particles are likely to have been consumed or breathed in by the mothers.
The particles were found in the placentas from four healthy women who had normal pregnancies and births. Microplastics were detected on both the foetal and maternal sides of the placenta and in the membrane within which the foetus develops.
A dozen plastic particles were found. Only about 4% of each placenta was analysed, however, suggesting the total number of microplastics was much higher. All the particles analysed were plastics that had been dyed blue, red, orange or pink and may have originally come from packaging, paints or cosmetics and personal care products.
The microplastics were mostly 10 microns in size (0.01mm), meaning they are small […]
If my memory is correct, plastics are made from oil. This would make it yet another black mark on the oil industry.
So “The Graduate” in 1967 presaged our future:
Mr. McGuire: I want to say one word to you. Just one word.
Benjamin: Yes, sir.
Mr. McGuire: Are you listening?
Benjamin: Yes, I am.
Mr. McGuire: Plastics.
Benjamin: Exactly how do you mean?
Mr. McGuire: There’s a great future in plastics. Think about it. Will you think about it?
My best to you all for a calmer and much healthier 2021!!!
On reflection my comment may sound dismissive of a serious problem but when one reviews past reports of the many toxic chemical compounds found in modern human bodies plastic may be the least damaging, who knows? Since WW2 we humans have very heavily polluted our lovely home.
Future generations will be left the task of cleaning it up, restoration will likely take hundreds of years. I imagine that I see evidence, even now, of a rising interest/love for our one and only home world that may, with the Grace of God, become a movement for fundamental change in the way humans relate to our natural world. Imagine a world not controlled by the few maximizing profits but one that profits only by making life better for all.