Menu
Water pollution is a growing concern, and microplastics are among the most alarming contaminants found in drinking water today. With potential health risks from ingesting these tiny particles, it’s crucial to understand what microplastics and nanoplastics are and how you can protect yourself by effectively removing them from your drinking water through reverse osmosis systems and filters.
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters (5 mm) in size, often originating from the breakdown of larger plastic items such as water bottles, packaging, and synthetic fabrics. Nanoplastics are even smaller—less than 100 nanometers in size—posing unique challenges due to their microscopic size and ability to penetrate biological tissues.
In oceans, rivers, and other water sources, microplastics and nanoplastics enter the ecosystem through pollution and waste runoff, accumulating in the water we consume. Research has shown these plastics are now found in tap water, bottled water, and even in food.
Based on data from over 50 global studies, it’s estimated that people consume around 5 grams of microplastics each week, roughly equivalent to the size of a credit card. These microplastics enter our bodies through air, food, and water. According to a report by WWF and the University of Newcastle, this totals about 100,000 particles or around 250 grams per year.
While the long-term health effects of ingesting microplastics are still under study, scientists are concerned about their potential to carry toxic chemicals and heavy metals. They may also cause inflammation or disrupt hormone systems when consumed in large amounts. By removing microplastics from your drinking water, you can reduce your exposure to these risks.
Yes, with the right filtration methods, you can significantly reduce microplastics in your water. Here’s how:
One of the most effective methods for removing microplastics from drinking water is using a reverse osmosis (RO) system. These systems push water through a semi-permeable membrane that can filter out particles as small as 0.001 microns, making it highly effective for capturing both microplastics and nanoplastics.
Activated carbon filters, commonly found in water filtration systems, are great at trapping a variety of contaminants, including microplastics. These filters work by adsorbing impurities onto the surface of the carbon. While they may not capture the smallest nanoplastics, they are effective for larger microplastic particles.
For the best protection, consider using a multi-stage filtration system that combines both reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters. This combination maximizes filtration effectiveness, ensuring a thorough removal of microplastics and other harmful contaminants such as chlorine, lead, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Looking for a solution to remove microplastics from your drinking water? Check out our water filter systems designed to provide you with clean, filtered water you can trust.
Yes, Brita filters can help reduce microplastics in water, but they may not remove all of them completely. Brita filters use activated carbon and ion-exchange resin to remove impurities such as chlorine, lead, and other contaminants from tap water. While activated carbon can trap some particles, including some microplastics, its pore size may not be fine enough to filter out the smallest microplastics, which can be as tiny as a few microns.
For more effective removal of microplastics, specialised filtration systems like reverse osmosis or filters with very fine membranes, such as nanofiltration or ultrafiltration, are more reliable. These filters are designed to capture even the smallest particles, including microplastics. So, while Brita filters can reduce the amount of microplastics, they are not a foolproof solution.
No, boiling tap water does not remove microplastics. Boiling kills bacteria and pathogens but does not filter out solid particles like microplastics. To effectively remove microplastics, you need a filtration system such as reverse osmosis or an activated carbon filter.
Yes, studies have shown that tap water in many parts of the world contains microplastics. While concentrations vary by region, microplastics have been found in both public water supplies and bottled water. Installing a water filtration system is a reliable way to ensure your water is free from these contaminants.
Not all water filters are created equal. Simple pitcher filters or basic carbon filters may not be capable of removing smaller microplastic particles. When choosing a water filtration system, it’s important to ensure that the filter is specifically designed to handle microplastics and other small contaminants. Look for tested and certified products to remove these particles from your water supply.
Aside from filtering your drinking water, there are additional steps you can take to reduce your overall exposure to microplastics:
Navigation
Contact
Follow Us