IIT Madras Research Points to Residential Buildings as Crucial in Microplastic Pollution

The IIT Madras review identifies overlooked microplastic sources within residential buildings as significant contributors to microplastic pollution. Additionally, the study delves into their transportation, transformation, and the adverse effects on aquatic organisms and human health.

IIT Madras Research Points to Residential Buildings as Crucial in Microplastic Pollution

An assessment conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has pinpointed both prominent and overlooked origins of microplastics within residential buildings, shedding light on their significant contribution to Microplastic Pollution. Additionally, the study delves into understanding the transportation, alteration, and harmful impacts these microplastics pose on aquatic organisms and human health.

The review highlighted that routine household tasks such as dishwashing, laundry, showering, and toilet use collectively contribute to the generation of municipal wastewater.

Moreover, items like face masks and synthetic indoor materials like carpets contribute to environmental and indoor pollution, potentially endangering aquatic and land-based ecosystems, as well as the health of humans and pets.

The review underscores the importance of source reduction as a critical approach in combating microplastic pollution. It recommends substituting personal care products with biodegradable alternatives and minimizing the use of plastic-based items like scouring pads. Additionally, it advocates for the integration of highly efficient filters in laundry machines to mitigate microplastic release.

The review has been featured in the journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research. According to the authors, this review marks the pioneering attempt to comprehensively examine various activities and products within residential buildings, collectively recognizing their substantial role in generating microplastics.

Ms. Angel Jessieleena, Ms. Kiruthika Eswari Velmaiel, Ms. Anju Anna John, and Prof. Indumathi M. Nambi of the Environmental and Water Resources Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Madras, alongside Ms. Sasikaladevi Rathinavelu from the Department of Biotechnology, IIT Madras, conducted this review.

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