Microplastics News and Research

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Cosmetic and cleaning products contain millions of plastic particles

Everyday cosmetic and cleaning products contain huge quantities of plastic particles, which are released to the environment and could be harmful to marine life, according to a new study.

27 Aug 2015

European experts publish common vision of priorities for marine research

Some 340 European scientists, policy-makers and other experts representing 143 organizations from 31 countries spoke with one voice today, publishing a common vision of today's most pressing marine-related health and economic threats and opportunities.

9 Oct 2014

Research reveals extent to which German beers may be contaminated by microplastics

If you're going to Oktoberfest next month to enjoy the delights of German beer, you might get more than you bargained for. New research has revealed the extent to which German beers may be contaminated by foreign substances, most notably, microplastics.

4 Sep 2014

Researchers to develop biodegradable replacement for microplastics found in scores of household products

If you've been on or near the water, you've seen it-the plastic trash that litters oceans, lakes, and streams worldwide. But visible plastic-soda bottles, lighters, flip-flops, combs, rope-may be the least of the problem. Scientists are beginning to realize that what you can't see, tiny bits of polyethylene or polypropylene called "microplastics," likely pose a greater threat to marine ecosystems.

6 Jun 2013

Household washing machines seem to be a major source of microplastic pollution

The latest episode in the American Chemical Society's (ACS) award-winning "Global Challenges/Chemistry Solutions" podcast series discusses the discovery that household washing machines seem to be a major source of so-called "microplastic" pollution -- bits of polyester and acrylic smaller than the head of a pin -- that researchers now have detected on ocean shorelines worldwide.

22 Dec 2011