Philip Landrigan, an epidemiologist and pediatrician from Boston College, discusses the alarming prevalence of microplastics and their potential harm to human health. He explains how these tiny particles can infiltrate our bodies, highlighting their links to cardiovascular diseases. The conversation delves into the inefficacy of recycling practices and what steps individuals and governments can take to mitigate exposure. Landrigan emphasizes the need for urgent research and systematic changes to combat plastic pollution for a healthier future.
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insights INSIGHT
Plastic Composition
Plastics are primarily made from fossil fuels and have two components: polymers and chemical additives.
Additives give plastic specific properties like color, stability, and water resistance.
insights INSIGHT
Micro/Nanoplastic Formation
Microplastics and nanoplastics result from larger plastics breaking down.
This breakdown is caused by environmental factors like sunlight, wave action, and erosion.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Microplastic Entry Points
Microplastics can enter food and water through contact with plastic packaging.
Avoid heating food in plastic and opt for glass containers.
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Plastic is a life-saving technology. Plastic medical equipment like disposable syringes and IV bags reduce deaths in hospitals. Plastic packaging keeps food fresh longer. Plastic parts in cars make cars lighter, which could make them less deadly in accidents. My bike helmet is plastic. My smoke detector is plastic. Safety gates for babies: plastic.
But in the last few months, several studies have demonstrated the astonishing ubiquity of microplastics and the potential danger they pose to our bodies—especially our endocrine and cardiovascular systems. Today’s guest is Philip Landrigan, an epidemiologist and pediatrician, and a professor in the biology department of Boston College. We start with the basics: What is plastic? How does plastic become microplastic or nanoplastic? How do these things get into our bodies? Once they’re in our bodies what do they do? How sure are we that they’re a contributor to disease? What do the latest studies tell us—and what should we ask of future research? Along the way we discuss why plastic recycling doesn’t actually work, the small steps we can take to limit our exposure, and the big steps that governments can take to limit our risk.
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Plain English with Derek Thompson 