Reducing Microplastics: 3 Easy Ways You Can Help

By Olivia Barney 

The average adult ingests over 40,000 particles of plastic each year, and they don’t even know it. The unsettling truth is that tiny fragments of plastic, called microplastics, are everywhere. They’re in the water we drink, the food we eat, and even the air we breathe. 

While this sneaky pollutant has made numerous headlines in recent years, there’s still much to learn about the impacts of microplastics on our environment (and in our bodies). As part of NHMU’s 2026 Lecture Series, a panel of microplastic experts came together to explore these impacts, and they want you to be part of the discussion. 

What are Microplastics? 

Microplastic poses a growing concern in oceans and other aquatic habitat. Image courtesy of Oregon State University

Microplastics are fragments of plastic that are 5 millimeters (about the size of a grain of rice) or smaller — with some so tiny that they have to be viewed under a microscope. Because they’re so small, we’re unlikely to notice how prevalent they are across all environments. It’s one of the reasons scientists are trying to raise awareness about the issue. 

Plastic doesn’t disappear. It may break into smaller pieces over the years, but it isn’t biodegradable. It will continue to exist long after it’s too small to see, and those tiny fragments find their way into our oceans, plants, animals, and bodies. 

When we talk about microplastics, it’s helpful to remember that we’re talking about a variety of synthetic materials that include plastic. So, we aren’t just talking about plastic straws at your local drive thru. We’re also looking at our tires and clothing, paint and adhesives, and even certain skincare products. 

Some of these products already contain microplastics, while others are larger items that produce microplastics over time. For example, synthetic fabrics make up many of our clothing options, and as those clothes wear out and lose threads, they produce microplastics. About this specific scenario, microplastic research scientist Abby Barrows expressed her thoughts. “If you can move away from synthetic fibers as much as possible with your clothing, that's a direct, localized environmental impact. It's going to change the air quality in your home. It's going to change the air quality when you dry those clothes. When you're wearing them, they're not shedding.” 

This is a realistic change that most people can work towards, and it isn’t the only action we can take. Keep reading for three easy ways you can help reduce microplastics. 

How Can I Help Reduce Microplastics? 

Reduce Single-Use Plastics 

The most obvious way to combat microplastic pollution is by reducing your use of single-use plastics — the kind you use and then quickly throw away. Single-use plastics include disposable straws and utensils, take-out containers, plastic grocery bags, cling-wrap food covers, and even the bottles that dish soap comes in! 

Reducing your use of these items makes a difference, and it’s easy to do! Consider purchasing reusable grocery bags, silicone food covers, and solid dish soap bars rather than the bottles. Keep a set of wooden or metal utensils in your bag and use them instead of the plastic versions offered at restaurants. Decline the offer of a straw. 

These actions are simple, but they make a big difference. Not only are you reducing your own use of single-use plastics, but you’re also sending a message to others encouraging them to do the same. 

Shop Organic & Natural Fibers 

Our clothing might be a less obvious source of microplastics, but it’s a huge contributor to the issue. Synthetic clothing (polyester, nylon, acrylic, etc.) sheds fibers with every wash and wear, and scraps of unused fabric from the manufacturers just get thrown away. 

While replacing your entire wardrobe might not be an option, there are ways to slowly make changes. When new clothes are in the budget, choose natural and organic fibers, like cotton, linen, hemp, or wool. When washing your existing synthetic clothes, consider using a microfiber-catching laundry bag or filter to reduce the microplastics that get washed down the drain. 

Join the "Break Free From Plastic" Citizen Science Project 

While individual changes are a great start, it’s the systematic changes that will make the largest difference. Consider joining a citizen science project to help with clean up and research initiatives. Break Free From Plastic hosts a citizen science initiative called “brand audits.” These projects involve selecting a location, cleaning up trash like wrappers or packaging, and recording which brands of products you’re seeing. This keeps brands responsible for their contribution to the microplastic problem and allows individuals to make a difference. 

It’s also an easy way to teach kids about this important issue. Since all ages can participate in a brand audit, this is a wonderful opportunity to teach your kids about environmental stewardship. You can learn more about this citizen science initiative here. 

Learn More at NHMU's Microplastics Discussion 

These tiny pieces of plastic form a big problem, but the best solution is collective action. As we refuse single-use plastics, reduce our use of other synthetic materials, and reuse things as much as possible, we will create a ripple effect of positive change. Start by picking one habit to change!