The world of arts and crafts is often filled with joy and creativity, especially for children. However, a common crafting staple—glitter—has become a source of frustration for parents and a concern for scientists. While glitter adds sparkle to kids’ projects and teens love it in their makeup, it is notoriously difficult to clean up. More importantly, researchers have identified glitter as a form of microplastic that can harm the environment.
Glitter is composed of tiny plastic particles that pose a significant threat to our ecosystems, particularly marine life. According to environmental experts, about 90% of the plastics found in open ocean environments are microplastics. These small particles, including those in glitter and various household products, can easily escape wastewater treatment systems and enter oceans, where they are often consumed by aquatic animals, disrupting the food chain.
In 2015, the U.S. implemented The Microbead-Free Waters Act, which banned the production and sale of rinse-off cosmetics containing plastic microbeads. Unfortunately, glitter has not been subjected to similar restrictions, even though it contributes to marine pollution just like microbeads.
A recent study highlights the negative impact of microplastics on marine organisms, revealing that species such as snails experience slowed growth when exposed to high concentrations of these pollutants. Abby Foster, a marine biology PhD student involved in the study, noted that microplastics could pose serious risks to marine life.
What’s the Solution for Glitter?
While a complete ban might strip away some of the fun from kids’ art projects, there is hope in the form of eco-friendly glitter alternatives. Many companies now offer biodegradable options that do not contain harmful microplastics. By choosing eco-glitter, parents can help mitigate environmental damage while still allowing their children to enjoy creative activities. As you consider your crafting options, remember that what you use today may linger in your home for years to come.
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Conclusion
In summary, while glitter has its charm, its environmental impact cannot be overlooked. Advocating for eco-friendly alternatives can help protect our oceans and create a more sustainable future for our children’s creative endeavors.
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