Last week we covered what micro and nanoplastics are, how pervasive they are in our environment and how their presence in our bodies may cause health problems. Today we focus on how to reduce our exposure to them in our air, water and food.

Scientists believe that the two main ways we ingest plastic is through food and water. There’s also some evidence that under certain conditions, we can also be exposed through our skin to chemical additives that leach from or stick to plastics.

New York Times sustainability editor, Katie Okamoto suggests the following practices:

1. Cut back on drinking beverages that come in plastic, both at home and when out and about. Investing in a stainless steel or glass travel bottle or tumbler can make the habit easier to stick to.

2. Avoid routinely using plastic for cooking, eating, or food storage.

3. Regularly manage dust, which can contain microplastics, by wiping surfaces at home with a damp cloth and vacuuming.

4. If you use a plastic bottle for your baby, there are some best practices you can follow, including avoiding heating or mixing milk or formula directly in the bottle.

Climate Conversations is brought to you by the Climate Action Committee. Learn more: [email protected].

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Posted by Donna Gerhauser