Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments smaller than 5 millimetres and practically invisible to the naked eye. Some are produced for industrial purposes, while others result from the breakdown of larger plastic objects.
A very worrying issue is their impact on the planet: since 1950, humans have produced over 9 billion metric tons of plastic, of which only 9% is recycled. Around 12% has been incinerated, and the vast majority—79%—has ended up in landfills or in the environment. They can be found in every corner of the world, from the Arctic to Antarctica.
What happens to microplastics that reach the seas and oceans?
Most plastic waste ends up in the sea, where it erodes into microplastics. In fact, 80% of the waste found in the oceans comes from land.
Once in the water, microplastics can be ingested by marine life and accumulate inside them, remain on the surface or sink to the seabed. Did you know they can even become trapped in ice?
How do microplastics affect human beings?
The scientific community has not yet reached full consensus, but research indicates there is reason to be concerned about microplastics and their health consequences. They affect humans mainly through the habitual and unconscious consumption of food and drinking water contaminated by these particles.
Microplastics release toxic chemicals and additives that can be absorbed by the human body when ingested, causing damage to the digestive system and triggering adverse hormonal effects. And yes, they are found in almost everything: fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, and even beer.
Measures to reduce them
More and more countries are launching policies to reduce plastic consumption and microplastic pollution. To minimise their presence in the environment, it is crucial that we all take action—at both personal and business levels.
On an individual level, this includes small decisions such as reducing single-use products or choosing sustainable and environmentally conscious alternatives. On a business level, we must adopt sustainable production practices, develop alternatives to products containing microplastics, and support the manufacture of microplastic-free products—just as we do at Ecoalf.
We are pioneers in sustainable fashion and leaders in the fight against microplastic pollution. This is why we use high-quality recycled materials to reduce dependence on virgin plastics. By creating durable garments from recovered marine waste, we offer a stylish alternative while contributing to ocean cleanup and environmental protection.
At Ecoalf, we prove that fashion can be ethical and responsible, inspiring others to join the fight against microplastics and choose sustainable fashion options.
Join us in this important mission to protect the planet!