Based on what we know from other types of tiny fibres, those dimensions are problematic, she says, based on what we know about mineral fibres such as asbestos or carbon nanotubes. “We know that those fibres \u2013 small enough to javelin down into the air sacs at the end of our airways \u2013 are problematic.”<\/p>\n
More like this:<\/p>\n
\u2022 Your kitchen is full of microplastics. Here’s how to eat less of them<\/a><\/p>\n \u2022 How do microplastics affect our health?<\/a><\/p>\n \u2022 What would happen if we stopped using plastic?<\/a><\/p>\n For microplastic fibres, the picture is still unclear, says Wright. “Would they cause the same effect? Or the fact that they’re flexible, whereas mineral fibres are very rigid, does that make [microplastics] less toxic, less harmful?”<\/p>\n Beyond their potential to interfere with tissues, there’s also the concern that microplastics often come with company. They are home to a broad range of bacteria<\/a>, and may carry other contaminants too<\/a>. It’s been suggested that\u00a0microplastics might act to\u00a0amplify the toxicity of other pollutants in the environment<\/a>. This field of research, however, is still in its early days, and the full effects of microplastics on the body are still not yet understood.<\/p>\n To solve the microplastic pollution crisis will take a lot more than changes within the home \u2013 there are plenty of broader sustainability concerns too. If moving to replace synthetic fibres in your home with natural fibres, for instance, there’s also the greater water and land use from organic cotton use to think about. Or if choosing to ventilate your home more to usher away microplastics, that pollution is only being pushed outdoors. Short of systemic change and a global reduction from the 460 million tonnes of plastic made each year<\/a>, there’s only so much individuals can do.\u00a0<\/p>\n “It’s tricky, isn’t it?” Wright concedes. “Because I feel like in these scenarios, it’s pick your battles.”<\/p>\n —<\/p>\n For essential climate news and hopeful developments to your inbox, sign up to the\u00a0Future Earth newsletter,<\/a>\u00a0while\u00a0The Essential List<\/a>\u00a0delivers a handpicked selection of features and insights twice a week.<\/p>\n For more science, technology, environment and health stories from the BBC, follow us on\u00a0Facebook<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Instagram<\/a>.<\/p>\n