Report

A recent study on bottled water from ten major brands in Kerala has uncovered the presence of plastic particles in the samples. The research shows that each litre of bottled water contains an average of three to ten plastic particles. The particles include various types, such as fibers, fragments, films, and pellets. This finding raises concerns, as it means that people consume approximately 153.3 plastic particles annually through bottled water alone.

Results Published in Renowned Scientific Journal

The study, conducted on bottled water sold in Kerala, has been published in the international scientific journal Springer Nature’s Discover Environmental. The research team confirmed the presence of eight different types of polymers in the bottled water samples. Notably, fibers made up 58.928% of the particles. Around 35.714% of the total particles were red. The researchers suggest that the fibres may have originated from untreated water sources, while other particles could have come from water purification components or packaging materials.

Microplastics Found Everywhere: In Water, Air, and Our Bodies

Microplastic particles are now a global concern, as they have been found in soil, water, food, air, and living organisms, including the human body. The study suggests that people inhale an average of 240 plastic particles each day. This highlights the extent of the plastic pollution problem and its pervasive presence in our environment.

Call for Better Water Quality Control and Plastic Waste Management

The study calls for urgent action to improve quality control processes in bottled water production. It stresses the need for industries, policymakers, and individuals to collaborate in reducing plastic usage and ensuring proper disposal and recycling. Prof. Dr. P.J. Sarleen, Head of the Department of Zoology at Fatima Mata National College, Kollam, who led the study, emphasized the importance of managing plastic waste responsibly and reducing its environmental impact. This research serves as a wake-up call for stricter regulations and practices to tackle the growing plastic pollution crisis.

Source: Mathrubhumi