Title: “Micro(nano)plastics particles in the air and its implications to human health”
Abstract
It is increasingly recognized that the ubiquity of convenient single-use plastic has resulted in a global plastic pollution crisis, with substantial global environmental and health consequences. Plastics degrade slowly, breaking down into microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) that persist in ecosystems and can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. Further, considerable number of research studies showed that PM10 (particulate matter ≤10μm in aerodynamic diameter) can be inhaled by the human and can get deposited in the respiratory tract, alveoli, and other parts, resulting in diseases. Therefore, concerns have arisen about inhaled plastic particles, which can penetrate the respiratory system and potentially cause inflammation and chronic conditions like asthma and COPD. Our team is studying airborne plastic debris, focusing on factors such as concentration, size, and polymer types to understand the health risks of inhaled and ingested particles. Preliminary data (under review) shows presence of multiple types of MNPs are common in academic environments. We identified polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyurethane (PU) as the most frequently encountered MNPs. Further, our findings suggest that PET-derived monomers may interact with inflammatory receptors, raising concerns about their health effects. This research highlights the need for increased awareness and protective measures regarding indoor air quality.
About the Speaker
Dr. Thava Palanisami obtained his PhD in risk assessment and remediation of mixed contaminants from the University of South Australia. Currently, he is the Director of the Environmental Plastics and Innovation Cluster (EPIC), at the University of Newcastle, Australia. His team EPIC aims to develop systemic solutions to improve food, soil, and water security while minimizing pollutant exposure and associated health risks. About a decade ago, Dr. Thava’s team began investigating plastics as a major contaminant, focusing on understanding the aging and weathering processes of microplastics in the environment which intended to enhance the precision of ecological and human health risk assessments and to create effective remediation strategies. Currently, his team is working on over 15 different research projects to fill knowledge gaps, and the remediation technologies they have developed in collaboration with industry partners are ready for implementation. Dr. Thava has also led the Australian Microplastic Assessment Project, and his team has developed the first treatment technology capable of completely removing microplastics and their associated chemicals from the entire water cycle. Additionally, Dr. Thava Palanisami has been recognized by the UNEP as a global leader in microplastics research and has made significant contributions to the development of preventive policies worldwide.
