According to studies by environmentalists from different continents, there are almost no clean water sources free of plastic particles in the world. Throughout 2018, the problem of microplastics was a central topic for reports, studies and initiatives of the UN Environment Program. Under the slogan #BeatPlasticPollution held its annual campaign “Clean Shores of Eurasia” and the International Association of the Lake Regions.
The volumes of plastic and polyethylene waste are growing inexorably. And, despite the desire of some states to reduce the use of disposable plastics, it is quite difficult to combat this material globally today. But plastic, decomposing, breaks up into microparticles, for which neither the soil nor many other natural filters are an obstacle. In addition, manufacturers of cosmetics, household chemicals and other products actively add specially made microplastics to their products - such as abrasive, emulsifier, antistatic agent, bonding element, etc. When all these particles appear in wastewater, they affect living organisms in three ways: as physical objects, as a source of chemicals, as a carrier of microorganisms and viruses.
Unfortunately, today there is no reliable data confirming that microplastic is harmful to the body. Although it is obvious that, getting into a person with drinking water or food, plastic particles interact with our various organs. WHO notes that in this case the cells of the immune system are activated, which means that the meeting with microplastic does not completely disappear. It can cause internal inflammation or carry mercury, pesticides, other toxins or viruses on its surface, so the consequences of getting into the body can be very serious.
That is why WHO is proposing to scientists around the world to intensify their work on the study of the harm from the smallest particles of decay of plastic and polyethylene.
"We urgently need to know more about the health impact of microplastics because they are everywhere — including in our drinking water," explains Dr. Maria Neira, director of the Department of Public Health, Environment, and Social Determinants of Health at the WHO.
Microplastic and other harmful impurities make fresh water not only unsuitable for people, but also affect the regional economy as a whole. The report of the World Bank Group says that water contaminated, for example, with nitrites from agriculture reduces the mental development of children, which in the future will lead to a decrease in the efficiency of their work. GDP in middle-income regions is almost halved if these regions are located in the lower reaches of heavily polluted rivers.
"Clean water is a key factor for economic growth. Deteriorating water quality is stalling economic growth, worsening health conditions, reducing food production, and exacerbating poverty in many countries," said World Bank Group President David Malpass.
The International Association of the Lake Regions calls on the leaders of the participating regions, in light of WHO recommendations, to pay close attention to the problem of water purity as one of the most important factors affecting public health and sustainable development of the territory.