Microplastics—tiny plastic particles formed when larger plastics break down—are both an environmental and health threat. Plastics are derived from oil and gas and there are significant greenhouse gas emissions associated with the extraction and refining of fossil fuels and the manufacturing of plastics. Plastics also release greenhouse gases when they degrade into microplastics. Duke University is at the forefront of microplastics research, with over 60 experts across 12 departments forming the Plastic Pollution Working Group. Their work spans environmental science, medicine, law and engineering, aiming to understand and mitigate the impacts of microplastics and their chemical additives—such as BPA, phthalates, and PFAS—which can leach into the tissues of humans and animals and cause harm. Duke researchers have linked microplastic exposure to serious conditions like cancer, Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Studies show higher microplastic concentrations in the brains of dementia patients and cellular changes in fish exposed to plastic fibers. With limited treatments for plastic-related illnesses, Duke’s interdisciplinary research is vital to understanding and addressing the long-term consequences of plastic pollution on human and environmental health. LEARN MORE.
