Microplastics, tiny plastic fragments less than 5 millimeters long, have become a growing concern. They’ve been found in surprising places from the deepest oceans to our food and even breast milk. If you’re worried about ingesting these microplastics through your drinking water, a new study offers a simple solution you can implement right at home. A Simple Way to Remove Microplastics in Your Drinking Water.
Boiling and Filtering Can Significantly Reduce Microplastics
Researchers published a promising study in the Environmental Science & Technology Letters journal. Their findings suggest that boiling and filtering your tap water can eliminate up to 90% of microplastics. The research team analyzed tap water samples from 14 countries, finding microplastics in a staggering 129 out of 159 samples.
To investigate further, they created simulated tap water containing minerals, chemicals, and microplastics commonly found in real tap water. Their goal was to see if the simple act of boiling could effectively remove microplastics.
Removing microplastics from your drinking water can be done using several simple and effective methods. One option is using activated carbon filters, which are commonly found in water filter pitchers and faucet attachments. These filters work by trapping contaminants, including microplastics, on the surface of carbon granules. Another highly effective method is installing a reverse osmosis (RO) system. RO systems force water through a semi-permeable membrane, filtering out particles larger than 0.0001 microns, effectively removing microplastics. Nanofiltration and ultrafiltration systems are also good choices, as they can filter out microplastics along with other contaminants; nanofiltration has slightly larger pores than RO, and ultrafiltration has pores between 0.01 and 0.1 microns.
Boiling your water is another way to reduce microplastics, as it can cause them to clump together, making them easier to filter out with a fine cloth or paper filter afterward. If you prefer bottled water, make sure to check the quality and sources since some brands may still contain microplastics. Opt for brands that use advanced filtration methods. Additionally, it’s crucial to regularly replace filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines because old or clogged filters can lose their effectiveness. By using these methods, you can greatly reduce the amount of microplastics in your drinking water, ensuring it is safer and cleaner
The results were particularly interesting for hard water, which contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. When heated, calcium carbonate (a common component of hard water) solidifies. The study revealed that this calcium solidifies around microplastic particles, making them easily trapped by a basic filter, like a coffee filter.
A Promising Approach, But More Research Needed
This study offers a glimmer of hope for those concerned about microplastics and other contaminants in their drinking water. However, the researchers acknowledge the need for further investigation. The long-term health effects of microplastic ingestion and the effectiveness of boiling and filtering as a removal method require more study.
The researchers see this study as a springboard for further research. However, they emphasize that boiling water is a simple and accessible method for most people. Boiling not only tackles microplastics but also eliminates harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses – an added health benefit.
For those who find boiling every glass of water inconvenient, consider investing in a filter specifically designed to remove microplastics. This way, you can enjoy cleaner, safer drinking water with minimal effort.
By implementing these simple steps, you can significantly reduce your exposure to microplastics in your drinking water. Remember, even while further research is ongoing, boiling and filtering offer a promising and readily available solution for cleaner, healthier drinking water.
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