4 policy solutions cities and states are using to tackle the microplastics problem

"Microplastics seem to be everywhere-in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. They have turned up in human organs, blood, testicles, placentas, and even brains. While the full health consequences of that exposure are not yet known, researchers are exploring potential links between microplastics and negative health effects such as male infertility, inflammation, liver disease and other metabolic problems, and heart attack or stroke."

"Countries have tried for the past few years to write a global plastics treaty that might reduce human exposure to plastic particles and their harm to wildlife and ecosystems, but the latest negotiations collapsed in August 2025. Most plastics are made with chemicals from fossil fuels, and oil-producing countries, including the U.S., have opposed efforts that might limit plastics production."

"While U.S. and global solutions seem far off, policies to limit harm from microplastics are gaining traction at the state and local levels. As an environmental lawyer and author of the book Our Plastic Problem and How to Solve It, I see four promising policy strategies. Banning added microplastics: Glitter, confetti, and turf Some microplastics are deliberately manufactured to be small and added to products."

Microplastics are widespread in air, water, food, and human tissues including organs, blood, reproductive organs, placentas, and brains. Researchers are investigating links between microplastic exposure and health problems such as male infertility, inflammation, liver and metabolic disease, and cardiovascular events. International efforts to negotiate a global plastics treaty stalled in August 2025 amid opposition from oil-producing countries and others that rely on fossil-fuel-derived plastics. National solutions remain limited, but state and local governments are adopting measures to reduce harm. One promising strategy targets intentionally added microplastics through bans on products like plastic glitter, confetti, and turf infill.

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