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Research Reveals That Up to 90% of Shrimps Off the Coast of São Paulo Are Contaminated with Microplastics! Are We Consuming Plastic Without Knowing? Scientists Warn of the Risks!
A study conducted by scientists from São Paulo State University (Unesp) revealed an alarming fact for the marine ecosystem and human health:
Between 80% and 90% of the shrimps analyzed off the coast of São Paulo are contaminated with microplastics.
The discovery, which still needs peer review, raises concerns about food safety and the impacts of pollution in the ocean.
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The research is part of the Biota Program and began in 2023.
Its objective is to evaluate the bioaccumulation of microplastics in detritivorous crustaceans, such as shrimps, that feed on organic matter present on the ocean floor.
According to postdoctoral researcher Daphine Herrera, a member of the study, this characteristic makes them ideal models for research on marine pollution.
Impact of Microplastics on Oceans and Health
The scientists identified a variation in the amount of microplastics among the analyzed regions, but the presence of these particles was widespread.
Previous studies had already indicated that mollusks and other marine organisms along the Brazilian coast are also affected by this pollution, as shown by research led by biologist Mércia Barcellos da Costa, from Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES).
Microplastics have already been detected in various parts of the human body, including the bloodstream, lungs, and placenta, according to international research.
Studies indicate that these particles can carry toxic pollutants and increase the risks of diseases.
Moreover, biodegradable plastics, often seen as an ecological solution, have the potential to generate even more microplastics and adhere more easily to biological tissues.
The Origin of Microplastics and Their Environmental Impacts
Microplastics can have various origins.
Many are released directly by industrial products, such as exfoliating cosmetics, while others are generated by the decomposition of larger plastics in the environment.
Even processes like recycling can generate microscopic fragments that spread through air, water, and soil.
To address this issue, Brazilian scientists are developing innovative solutions.
An example is the work conducted by engineer Paulo Augusto Marques Chagas from Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), who uses nanotechnology to create vehicle filters capable of trapping microplastics present in the air.
In addition, researchers from University of São Paulo (USP) and National Center for Energy and Materials Research (CNPEM) are developing equipment to remove these particles from water.
Is It Possible to Reduce Plastic Contamination?
Eliminating plastics from daily life completely may seem like an insurmountable challenge, but experts advocate for a drastic reduction in the use of disposable plastics.
Plastic bags, PET bottles, and single-use packaging are identified as environmental villains and could be replaced by sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable materials of plant origin or reusable items.
The Unesp research also unfolds into new investigations about the impact of plastic contamination on the nutritional quality of seafood consumed in Brazil.
The upcoming studies will analyze, in addition to shrimps, the bioaccumulation of microplastics in other crustaceans, such as crabs, lobsters, and crayfish.
Given these facts, it is crucial that society and authorities adopt swift and effective measures to curb plastic pollution, thus ensuring the preservation of marine ecosystems and food safety for the population.
Esse assunto concernente à poluição é de grande relevância, porém, há muito anos que se sabe da problemática, sem que as autoridades constituídas tomem alguma providência. Isso é para ser discutido e tomar providências nas mais altas camadas da sociedade e quem de direito, mas não é feito, estão esperando por quem?