Microplastics pose ‘global threat’, says French expert

French plastics expert Professor Nathalie Gontard will offer a free talk on the massive scale of plastic pollution, the problems it causes and potential solutions at the University of Auckland on 30 April.

“Plastic particles pose a global threat to human and environmental health," says Gontard, the research director at the National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment (INRAE) in France.

"They are toxic through various mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, metabolic disturbances, inflammation, neurotoxicity, and increased cancer risk" she says.  

Between 1950 and 2025, about 12 billion tons of petrochemical-based plastic were produced, of which 12 percent was incinerated, she says.

That leaves about 10.5 billion tons of plastic: five times more than the total animal biomass on earth.

This “gigantic reservoir” of plastic continues to release plastic particles into the environment and our bodies.

Recycling is not an effective solution, because micro and nano-sized plastic particles are still emitted during plastic production, throughout its use and after it is turned into new plastic products.

“For example, recycling tyres into artificial turf is a huge source of micro and nano-plastic pollution.

“Microplastics are invading and jeopardising the balance and proper functioning of our environment and bodies, posing one of the greatest global health challenges of the 21st century,” Gontard says.

Biodegradable plastics often require commercial processing to break down fully, making reusable products a better option, she says.

The best way to stop fuelling the problem is to buy carefully, says Gontard.

“A plastic toy can be replaced by a wooden alternative - or simply by a non-material gift, such as your time," she says. "A plastic bag can be replaced by a reusable cotton bag and a polyester pullover by a woollen pullover." 

Professor Nathalie Gontard will talk about plastic pollution at a free event organised by the University of Auckland’s Centre for Climate, Biodiversity and Society – Ngā Ara Whetū on Wednesday 30 April from 2pm to 3pm. Register here.