For decades, the use of plastics has been widespread at both industrial and domestic levels, so plastics and their potential environmental impact are currently of great interest and concern. The contamination of the environment with plastic waste, especially in the marine environment, is one of the main problems affecting society. In addition, there is increasing evidence that some small plastics, called microplastics, reach the food chain and can also have effects on our health, although these are currently unknown.
Therefore, one of the sustainable development goals of the United Nations and the WHO is the challenge of promoting research on the impact of plastics and microplastics on the environment and on health. In fact, several international and national organizations have recently stated the need for a comprehensive assessment of the presence of microplastics in the environment, of human exposure via food and of their potential health effects.
Several studies have demonstrated the presence of microplastics in food and beverages for human consumption, which shows that we are exposed to these particles via ingestion. However, the actual exposure, the amount, and the possible effects on our health are currently unknown. Thus, more studies are needed to establish the level of risk, exposure, and possible toxicity, both to the particles themselves and to other pollutants and pathogens that may be associated with them.
In order to present to society, the current problem of environmental pollution by plastics and microplastics, we have created this comic for children and adults that explains in an easy and simple way how they reach us, their possible risks, as well as some tips to help solve this problem that affects us all, such as the importance of reducing their excessive use and recycling.
