Microplastics are tiny plastic particles typically less than 5 millimeters in size, originating from the breakdown of larger plastic debris or manufactured as microbeads for products like cosmetics and cleaning agents. They are pervasive in the environment, especially in oceans and waterways, where they pose serious risks to wildlife and potentially human health.

Microplastics can enter the human body through food, water, and air, potentially carrying toxic chemicals that may disrupt hormones or damage cells. Ongoing research suggests they could contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, and long-term health issues if accumulated in organs over time.

Microplastics are harmful to animals because they can be mistaken for food, leading to ingestion that causes internal blockages, starvation, or exposure to toxic substances. These particles can accumulate in the food chain, affecting not only individual animals but entire ecosystems.