Microplastics, macro problem

Our Monarch Explains range is back with its latest addition; a guide discussing all things microplastics. We published an article a few months ago on the effects of microplastics in the ocean, and on our environment, marine life, and ecosystems as a whole. Humanity’s detrimental impact on Planet Earth is becoming more evident as time goes on, and awareness surrounding our actions is a big part of the problem. By producing this Monarch Explains guide, we hope to bring awareness to the topic of microplastics filling up our oceans, and to educate readers on actions they can take to minimise their impact and mitigate negative effects.

One of the greatest sources of microplastics is a standard domestic clothes wash, where up to 700,000 microfibres can be released in just one wash. Some microplastics are so small that they’re almost invisible, while the larger pieces can be up to 5mm long. All types of microplastics can be ingested by sea creatures, causing mutations or even death for some of them. Recent studies have also shown microplastic particles in human’s digestive systems too, which is a real wakeup call in understanding just how serious the issue is.

Monarch Explains: Microplastics, macro problem takes a look at the different types of plastics used to make various products, and lays out exactly which ones can be recycled. There are also a range of health risks associated with different plastics, so it’s important to know which products we might find them in, and how it could affect humans and our ecosystems. Our guide talks about how, individually, we can make differences to reduce the amount of plastic we let into our lives and to ensure responsible disposal.

Please get in touch with our Sustainability Manager by emailing David.Carlyon@monarchpartnershipc.o.uk or by calling 020 8835 3535 and we’ll help you to start operating more sustainably.