Boston, Massachusetts: Tiny plastic particles have been causing concern as they are found in various aspects of our lives, including food, breast milk, and even in clouds. However, new research suggests that a simple solution may help reduce microplastics in drinking water – boiling it.
In a recent study published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology Letters, researchers Zhanjun Li and Eddy Y. Zeng found that boiling and filtering water could remove up to nearly 90 percent of microplastics. These particles were found in 129 out of 159 tap water samples from 14 different countries around the world.
The potential health risks of consuming these microplastics are still not fully understood. While the World Health Organization highlighted some possible dangers of exposure to microplastics in a recent report, more research is needed to fully grasp the implications.
According to Chris Reddy, a senior scientist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, understanding the impact of microplastics will take time as more studies are conducted. Reddy emphasizes the importance of limiting the intake of non-natural substances in our daily lives.
The researchers behind the study created simulated tap water with common minerals, chemicals, and microplastics to see if boiling water alone could effectively remove plastic particles. They found that in “hard” water, high temperatures could solidify certain minerals like calcium carbonate, encapsulating the microplastics and making them easier to filter out.
While boiling and filtering drinking water may help reduce microplastics, its effectiveness could vary depending on water quality and the region. The researchers suggest waiting for solids to settle and allowing the water to cool before filtering out the particles for those interested in trying this method at home.
Overall, while boiling water may not be a perfect solution to the global issue of microplastics pollution, the researchers hope that their study will inspire more research in this area. The ease of boiling water, along with its other health benefits, makes it a practical and accessible option for those concerned about the presence of microplastics in drinking water.