Researchers from Trinity College Dublin discovered that plastic-based glitter interferes with the biomineralisation process in marine organisms, crucial for building their shells and skeletons. Their laboratory tests showed that tiny fragments of PET glitter attracted calcium carbonate, leading to unintended structural changes that might compromise marine life integrity. This disruption not only endangers molluscs and coral, but may also contribute to an increase in microplastic pollution as the particles degrade faster. The findings underscore the urgent need to address microplastic pollution's impact on marine ecosystems for environmental protection.
Molluscs, mussels, scallops, coral and plankton are at risk due to tiny plastic and metal particles causing disruption in biomineralisation.
Laboratory tests found that calcium carbonate was drawn to tiny fragments of plastic glitter, compromising the skeleton and shell development of marine organisms.
The study notes that the action of calcium carbonate build-up could lead to faster degradation of plastic particles, increasing microplastic pollution.
Microplastic pollution is an urgent global issue, highlighting the need to understand how synthetic materials interact with natural processes.
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