Unfortunately, plastic pieces are the most prevalent type of debri found in the ocean. Although we’re now taking measures to become more environmentally friendly in our day-to-day, the plastic that hasn’t been decomposed from all the years of usage is still being broken into small bits and pieces.

Microplastics come from a variety of sources including larger pieces of plastic which get broken into smaller pieces over time. We can even find microplastics hidden in our cosmetic and health products, a place we never thought we’d find plastic! Microbeads, a form of microplastics, are very small pieces of polyethylene plastic that can be added to cleansers, exfoliators, and even toothpaste products.

Since we typically use these products to scrub our skin and teeth, these beads get washed down the drain and are tiny enough to pass through the filtration system leading them straight into the ocean. The largest threat of microplastics is towards marine life as it’s taking up the space in their home and contaminating their bodies.

The best thing we can do for our aquatic life is make an effort to minimize our plastic usage. Always keep in mind that our daily choices make a difference. Not just for the fishes in the sea, but also for the people on our planet. To sustain our environment and resources, we always need to work towards more sustainable practices as businesses and habits as humans!